Page 32 - TNE WORKBOOK
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In Summer, if you must use A/C,
set it at a higher temperature
• On hot days and nights, if you’re desperate for some air con relief, then set it at about 25 degrees, rather
than, say, 15 degrees. That way, you’re A/C takes up way less energy, and you can still feel comfortable
inside, by wearing loose, light clothing and drinking lots of iced water!
• The same issues with aircon apply as with heaters. They can make your eyes itchy, your throat sore, and
dry out your skin. Let your body enjoy the higher levels of natural humidity in Canberra’s summer-time.
It’s actually better for your health!
Behavioural Science Tip
For repeat actions, you’re likely to forget or revert back to your old behaviour at some point – this is normal
and to be expected – it’s part of being human! It happens for everyone, so there’s no reason to feel guilty, just
pick up where you left off and try again. The more times you repeat a habit, the easier it becomes and the less
you have to think about it. Once you’ve performed the action enough times, you’ll reach ‘automaticity’ – that
is, doing something so automatically you don’t even realise you’re doing it.
Switch stuff off
• Over time, standby power on things like toasters, computers and phone chargers uses quite a bit of
electricity.
• You’ll save cash and feel in control of your power usage if you train yourself to get into the habit of turning
off lights, fans and power points when they’re not in use. P.S. Did you know that if you leave a fan on in an
empty room – it can actually make the room hotter!
Get free expert advice on what
changes you can make to your
home to save energy
The ACT government’s Actsmart program provides this for free. Check out the details here.
Tier 2: Middle-o-the-road (Intermediate level)
When replacing household
appliances, buy ones with
high energy efficiency ratings!
• If you need to replace electrical appliances, then the Department of Environment has a free energy rating
app for smart purchasing of electrical appliances.
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