In preparation for a long hot summer, AGL Energy Limited (AGL) is preparing Australians by sharing some practical tips to help them stay cool and keep energy costs under control this season

Predictions made by the Bureau of Meteorology suggest that due to the strong effects of the El Nino in the Pacific, it is not only daytime temperatures that are expected to be warmer than average this summer but also overnight temperatures.

AGL Head of Corporate Communications Karen Winsbury, said that consumers can monitor their energy usage over summer through the free AGL mobile app and on My AGL IQ®, AGL’s online energy monitoring tool. Customers with digital meters can also set up usage alerts to remind them when their usage starts to climb.

“Summer bills vary by state, and a particularly hot summer will drive bills up as we switch on fans and air conditioning to keep our homes cool. Cooling accounts for approximately 40 percent of the average home’s energy usage during summer, so it’s important to ensure that your air conditioner is in good working order.

“It is a good idea to have an annual service on your air conditioning system before summer to check that external equipment and vents are free from leaves and other debris. We also recommend employing a professional to check the evaporator and condenser coils, refrigerant levels and controls so that your system works as efficiently as possible all summer long.

“When it is going to be a hot day, prepare your home early in the morning by pulling down awnings, drawing blinds and closing windows and doors. Use portable and ceiling fans to encourage air flow through your home before the day heats up and minimise going in and out of the house, as every time the door opens, it will let more heat into the house.

“When you decide it’s time to turn on the air conditioner, set the temperature between 23°C and 26°C. Only cool the rooms you are using and keep doors closed to rooms that are not being used. If the temperature drops in the evening, turn off your air conditioner and open up the house to allow the cool air to flow through,” explained Ms Winsbury.

It is also a good idea to use the warmer weather to your advantage and consider air-drying your clothes.

For more energy efficiency advice visit aglenergy.com.au

Top 5 summer energy savings tips from AGL
1. Where possible, set your air conditioner between 23°C and 26°C. Every degree below 23°C could add 10 percent to your cooling costs.
2. In summer, pre-cool your home by closing windows and drawing curtains as well as using external awnings for shade.
3. Before the day heats up, use a ceiling or portable fan to move cool air around your home.
4. Zone your house by closing doors to rooms while they’re not in use.
5. Make the use of the sun and consider installing a solar water heater or a solar PV system.

About AGL
AGL is one of Australia’s leading integrated energy companies. It is taking action to responsibly reduce its greenhouse gas emissions while providing secure and affordable energy to its customers. Drawing on over 175 years of experience, AGL serves its customers throughout eastern Australia with meeting their energy requirements, including gas, electricity, solar PV and related products and services. AGL has a diverse power generation portfolio including base, peaking and intermediate generation plants, spread across traditional thermal generation as well as renewable sources including hydro, wind, solar, landfill gas and biomass.