Savings Tips

At Electric Kiwi, we’re committed to helping you get the most out of your electricity—while keeping your bills as low as possible. Here are our top tips for using energy efficiently and saving money every month:

1. Use Appliances Wisely

  • Switch to LED Bulbs: LEDs use up to 85% less energy than traditional bulbs and last much longer.
  • Unplug Devices: Chargers, TVs, and other electronics draw power even in standby mode—unplug them when not in use.
  • Efficient Washing: Wash clothes with cold water and wait for a full load. Air dry when possible.

2. Master Your Heating (and Cooling)

  • Heat smart: Use a heat pump or energy-efficient heater, and keep doors and windows closed when heating a room. Heat pump heaters are cheaper to run and use around a third of the power of conventional fan heaters.
  • Layer Up: Wearing an extra layer inside can keep you comfortable without touching the thermostat.

3. Improve Your Home’s Efficiency

Small improvements can make a big difference for your comfort and your power bill:

  • Insulate Your Home: Ceiling and underfloor insulation can dramatically reduce heating costs by keeping warmth in and cold out. Check if you’re eligible for subsidies through Warmer Kiwi Homes.
  • Install Draught Stoppers: Seal up gaps around doors, windows, and floors to prevent heat loss. Available from DIY stores.
  • Upgrade Windows: Double glazing or even secondary glazing (an extra layer of glass or acrylic) cuts down heat loss through glass.
  • Fit Thermal Curtains: Heavy, full-length curtains trap warmth inside.
  • Consider Hot Water Cylinder Wraps: Insulating your hot water cylinder and pipes helps retain heat for longer, so you use less energy.
  • Cut back trees or shrubs: Unblocking windows to improve sun.

4. Make the Most of Your Hour of Power and Offpeak Rates

  • Shift Usage: Schedule high-energy tasks (washing, drying, dishwashing) during your free Hour of Power or take advantage of cheaper off-peak rates. Set timers or use smart home devices to automate appliances.

5. Kitchen Smarts

  • Water: Only heat as much as you need in the kettle or when cooking.
  • Cook Efficiently: Use lids on pots, match pot size to element, and microwave or air fry smaller meals. Microwaves use up to 70% less power than an oven.
  • Fridge & Freezer: Keep your fridge between 3–5°C and freezer at -18°C. Regularly defrost and keep them full (but not overloaded!) for best efficiency.

6. Hot Water Hints

  • Shorter Showers: Schedule high-energy tasks (washing, drying, dishwashing) during your free Hour of Power or take advantage of cheaper off-peak rates. Set timers or use smart home devices to automate appliances.
  • Fix Leaks: A dripping hot tap wastes both water and electricity.

7. Switch Off and Save

  • Lights Out: Turn off lights in unused rooms.
  • Energy Monitors: Consider a plug-in energy monitor to see what’s driving up your bill!

8. Air the house

  • Use extractor fans and windows: to remove moisture and damp air which costs more to heat.
  • Wipe condensation: from windows.
  • Close curtains: before dusk to keep heat in.

9. Upgrade appliances for Savings

  • Efficient Appliances: Look for the Energy Star rating when replacing appliances. More stars = more savings.
  • Heat Pump Water Heaters: While a bigger investment, they can cut water heating costs by up to 60%.

Need more personalised advice?

Check your usage in the Electric Kiwi app, or reach out—we're here to help you find ways to save!