Energex has produced data to highlight the cost of running appliances to keep warm during cool weather.
Executive General Manager Customers at Energex, Michael Dart said the nationally compiled data explained what $1 worth of power could buy.
“Using a reverse-cycle air conditioner is still one of the most cost-effective ways to keep your home warm, costing around a dollar to run the average sized system at 20°C in a 36 sq m area for two hours,” Mr Dart said.
“People often love a longer, hot shower in winter but for every 15 mins it’s costing $1 — not to mention the additional water in dry areas.”
Mr Dart urged people to continue to use clotheslines and sun for drying clothes during winter because a dryer could cost up to $1 per load.
Regarding entertainment on dark winter nights, Mr Dart said $1 would buy around 20 hours of binge watching on a smart TV.
“Charging your smart phone is extremely cheap, costing just a dollar for a whole year,” he said.
“It’s hard to resist comfort food in the cooler months and using your oven to cook a hearty meal will cost a dollar, while your fridge costs about the same to run for two to three days, depending on its size.”
Mr Dart said when doing the washing, $1 would clean around five loads in a front-loading machine compared to three cycles in a top-loader.
“Washing the dishes costs around the same as your front loader, getting around three rounds of plates and cutlery done for a dollar,” he said.
“If going for a drive is your thing in the cool weather, and you have an electric car, then you’re doing it pretty economically, motoring around 18km for just $1.”
