From switching off lights to taking cold showers, millions of Australians are finding ways to lower soaring power bills while staying cool this summer.

A Finder survey shows 71% of Australians are acting to lower summer electricity costs[i].

Nearly half (47%) are switching off lights more and 38% are using air conditioning less. Choice advises that the smaller the gap between outdoor and indoor temperatures, the less you’ll spend[ii]on air-conditioning. Aim for an 8°C difference for optimal efficiency. For example, on a 32°C day, set your air con to 24°C. This is an important tip because for every degree above the 8°C differential, running costs rise 10%, warns Choice.

Finder adds that Aussies are also trying to save by keeping the blinds down (29%), using the fan less (17%), and taking cold showers (15%), which round out the top 5 ways Aussies are trying to slash their bill.

Become a fan of fans this summer

When it comes to fans, strategically placed ceiling fans are the cooling champions, delivering comfort while helping cut energy costs. According to Hipages[iii] you’ll pay around 2 cents per hour for a ceiling fan, compared to 33-40 cents per hour for a split system air conditioner and $1.48-$1.94 per hour for ducted air conditioning. Keep in mind, though, that you might need a few fans to cool the same area as one air conditioner.

Seal the sneaky air leaks

Don’t let the hot summer air sneak in where it’s not welcome. Take a moment to check for gaps and cracks around your windows, doors, and air ducts. A quick fix with a tube of sealant or caulk can work wonders to stop cool air from escaping and the heat from sneaking in. Even an old-school door snake can do a job of keeping the heat out. A well-sealed property means your air conditioner and fans can chill out and work more efficiently.

Throw some shade our way

Keeping the blinds pulled down is a popular tactic, and a low-cost way to keep energy bills down, with 29% of Australians using window coverings to help keep their property cool in summer. By blocking direct sunlight and reducing solar heat gain, blinds and curtains can significantly lower indoor temperatures before the heat enters the home.

At the time of writing in mid-December, a basic block-out roller blind from Temple & Webster starts from around $70, while a 1210 mm X 1200 mm white adjustable plantation shutter is priced at about $600 at Bunnings[iv].

Compare energy providers

Finder’s research shows that just 13% of Australians plan to switch energy providers. But shopping around for a better deal is one of the quickest ways to save, as there is a difference of $370-690 a year between the cheapest and most expensive plans.

If switching energy providers isn’t on your to-do list, small lifestyle tweaks can also help ease the financial strain. Finder advises that wearing lighter fabrics, keeping chilled water on hand, or using cold packs can make the heat a little more bearable this summer.

For more cost-effective hacks for keeping your energy bill down this summer and the heat out, talk to your local Raine & Horne office.

[i] https://www.finder.com.au/news/sweating-the-bills-2025

[ii] https://www.choice.com.au/home-and-living/cooling/home-cooling/articles/top-ten-cooling-tips

[iii] https://hipages.com.au/homes/comparison/fan-vs-air-conditioner/

[iv] https://www.bunnings.com.au/products/curtains-blinds/indoor-blinds/shutter-blinds?srsltid=AfmBOopMV1rc0zQi5YTDnUzNztnmi_DCNlWI2czXYDT5cJYY_4bXozb_