ENERGY USE

How to make your strata complex more energy efficient.

As an owner of a building in a strata complex, you can take several steps to make the building more sustainable and work together as a community to lower the collective energy use. First, your strata managers should have an energy-efficient building plan covering lighting, air conditioning, lifts, pools, and water.

Here are some areas you may like to review as a resident to ensure you reduce energy use and energy bills.

Lighting
Check whether your body corporate has replaced traditional light bulbs with energy-efficient LED lights.

Request installation of motion sensors in common areas like hallways, staircases and car parks. These sensors automatically turn the lights on and off when no one is around, reducing energy consumption. In addition, use as much natural light as possible with skylights or large windows, which will help reduce the need for artificial lighting during the day.

Airconditioning
Many strata complexes have air conditioning in common areas, including hallways, foyers, and gym areas which may run throughout the day and night. Work with the strata managers to ensure there is a heating and cooling maintenance plan which includes keeping equipment in good working order and using thermostats and timers.

By keeping thermostats closer to the ambient temperatures, heating and cooling bills could be substantially reduced.

Water
Ensure your strata has a plan for managing central hot water systems efficiently. For example, making sure the hot water system is in good working order, that the pipes are well insulated and that cooling towers are located closer to hot water boilers can make a difference.

Electric vehicles
Many strata complexes are evaluating the opportunity to install electric vehicle chargers. As more residents move towards using EVs, the need for charging is expected to increase.

Pool
If your strata complex has a pool, discuss ways to reduce the running costs at the next strata meeting. Upgrading to an energy-efficient smart pool pump can use significantly less energy than traditional pumps. In addition, using a timer to control the pump and other equipment, lighting, and heating ensures they are only used when needed.

If the pool doesn't have a cover, perhaps suggest using some of the strata funds to install one, as it can help reduce water evaporation and heat loss, which can lower the energy required to heat the pool and save money in the long term. Also, check if the water chemistry is being adequately monitored, which can help reduce the need for excess chemicals and save energy - by reducing the time needed for running equipment.

Summary

• Join fellow residents to share ideas on saving energy usage and making an environmental difference.

• Review lighting in common areas and install motion sensors and skylights.

• Check whether there is an air conditioning plan to ensure heating and cooling are optimal.

• Ensure there is a plan for managing hot water systems energy efficiently.

• Consider a plan to install electric vehicle chargers.

• Review ways to reduce and keep the pool running costs low.

ActewAGL's energy saving tips are designed to help you take control of your energy use, while reducing your bills and environmental impact. Save with great value energy plans backed by our sustainability promise, supported by 100% local, award-winning service.

For more information about how you can transition to an energy-efficient home visit the SolarHub & ActewAGL Smart Energy Hub today.

Disclaimer: These Energy Savings tips and articles are for information purposes only. Please ensure you are aware of any safety precautions before operating appliances or products.