Check whether your appliances are energy efficient

Energy efficient appliances use less electricity to achieve the same level of performance. But how do you know if your appliances are energy efficient?

Energy ratings are the best way to tell how efficient your appliances are.

Energy ratings make it easy for you to compare the energy efficiency and running costs of appliances. The Energy Rating website is a good place to start if you're looking for a new appliance or to check your current appliances.

You can also check the energy rating label if they're still on your appliance. Read more about understanding energy rating labels.

Find the right energy plan for you

By switching energy plans or providers to something better suited to your needs you could be making savings. You can use the Australian Energy Regulator’s Energy made easy website to compare offers from all the energy providers. Read more about what to look for and how to compare energy plans.

Try these tips to reduce your energy use

A big way to save money is to use less power. Here are some small changes you can make today to save money.

• Switch your appliances off at the wall when you're finished using them.
• Turn lights off as you leave the room.
• Dry your clothes on the line or on a clothes rack instead of using a dryer.
• Save by using the most energy efficient temperature to cool or heat your home. Stick to 24-25 degrees in summer and 19-21 degrees in winter.
• Heat or cool your home using aircon for a short time, then switch to an electric or ceiling fan to circulate the air while saving power.

Read more advice on how to keep winter energy costs down and how to save energy in summer.

Make sure your bill is correct

Understanding your power bill can help you check your bill is correct. It can also show you more about how much power you use over time, your tariffs and any extra fees and charges.

For more tips, read the Australian Government’s guide to reduce energy bills or the Queensland Government’s tips to reduce your electricity bill.

Water efficiency and ratings

Water ratings make it easy for you to find and compare the most water efficient products. Check out the Water Rating website for help choosing water efficient products.

Products regulated under the Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards (WELS) scheme must be registered and labelled.

The water rating label helps you make informed choices about the water efficiency of products. Read more about understanding water rating labels.

Be waterwise

By being waterwise and making some simple changes around your home, you can help save water and save money. Some handy tips to be waterwise are using a timer on your sprinkler, turning your hose off at the tap even if it has a trigger nozzle, and if you have a pool use a pool cover.

For more guidance, follow the Queensland Government’s advice and guidance about saving water at home.

What to do if you receive a high bill

If you receive a high bill or are worried about affording your energy or water bills, the best thing you can do is get in touch with your provider to discuss the options available such as payment plans or extensions.

How EWOQ can help

If you've raised a complaint with your provider and are not happy with the outcome or need further support, contact us to make a complaint. We provide a free, fair and independent dispute resolution service for unresolved complaints with electricity and gas providers across Queensland and water suppliers in South-East Queensland.