6 December 2023 / Matt Blewitt
Chill out with our top tips for strata living and energy cost reduction
In a world where energy costs just keep on climbing, affecting homes big and small, everyone is on the lookout for practical solutions. Whether the place you call home is a snug apartment or a sprawling mansion, the quest for ways to cut energy costs is universal. But when it comes to strata ownership and strata living, there’s a bit more to think about in the quest for energy cost reduction.
At ASSM, we have over 40 years of industry experience, and we know strata management inside and out. Currently, the overall cost of living, including energy expenses, is high.
Summer tends to drive up these costs, given the hot weather and increased home activities during holidays. In light of this, we have some practical tips for both strata residents and strata scheme owners to navigate this situation.
Tips for strata residents
If you reside in a strata property and want to trim your energy bill this summer, start with the basics. You need not sacrifice the comfort of cool air from your air conditioning – just ensure you’re optimising its usage. Set the thermostat to an energy-efficient temperature. If circumstances allow, install a smart thermostat to better control the cooling schedule.
Also, if you have ceiling fans, use them to help circulate cool air and close the blinds or curtains during the hottest part of the day. Personal cooling items such as fans and cooling towels can also limit the burden on your air conditioner.
The kitchen can be a major source of unwanted, extra heat in the warmer months. Try cooking during the cooler parts of the day and limiting the use of the oven. Smaller appliances like microwaves or slow cookers will generate less heat.
Another effective method to decrease energy consumption involves opting for energy-efficient lighting. Swap out incandescent bulbs for LEDs, and remember to turn off lights when not in use.
For major appliances like dishwashers and washing machines, run them during off-peak hours and unplug chargers and devices during idle periods to prevent standby power consumption. Wash your laundry in cold water and minimise the use of the dryer. When purchasing appliances, ensure they have a good energy rating.
Finally, seal any leaks and gaps in windows and doors to prevent cool air from escaping. Use draft stoppers for the gaps under the doors.
Should your strata dwelling need repairs or maintenance, especially if it hampers your efforts to live with maximum energy efficiency, do not hesitate to contact your strata manager to address and rectify the situation promptly.
Tips for strata scheme owners
The consequences of the continual rise in living expenses and energy costs don’t just impinge upon individuals. They significantly affect strata schemes as well. The operational costs of strata schemes, contingent on factors such as the size of the complex, the number of common areas and the presence of amenities such as pools, gyms and elevators, are directly impacted. Elevated operational costs inevitably translate into higher levies for owners. Therefore, a shared responsibility for energy efficiency is incumbent upon owners. The present season is an opportune time to conscientiously reflect on strategies to enhance energy efficiency within strata schemes.
An energy audit to assess current usage and identify areas for efficiency is a great place to start. Additionally, consider these items, especially in the summer:
- Smart landscaping with strategically placed trees or simply installing shading devices can significantly reduce the heat absorbed by buildings.
- Replace outdated or inefficient lighting with LED fixtures and consider installing motion sensors in common areas so lights are only on when necessary.
- Ensure ventilation systems are well-maintained and functioning optimally. Use natural airflow and strategically open windows during cooler evenings to reduce air conditioning reliance.
- Conduct routine maintenance on HVAC systems so they function optimally throughout the peak warmer months.
Why choose All Suburbs Strata Management?
There are a lot of fun things to look forward to every summer. Outdoor activities with friends and family, trips to the beach, the holidays – but the cost of cooling and the rising cost of living can be a concern.
Enjoy the season in a sustainable, energy-efficient manner this year.
At ASSM, we have over 40 years of experience in strata management, covering all suburbs in Sydney, and we are experts in residential, community, commercial and industrial strata schemes and have over 40 years of experience in strata management, covering all suburbs in Sydney. We also assist developers in preparing for registration and provide strata reports and inspections.
We will ensure your strata scheme runs as smoothly as possible. When considering buying into a strata scheme or wanting to engage a professional and qualified team, contact ASSM today.
Meet The Author
Matt Blewitt
Licensee in Charge / General Manager
Matt’s career began in property management, and he worked his way through a range of senior roles before returning to the family business. He now oversees ASSM strata portfolios with a practical focus on risk, consistency and keeping things running as they should. He believes clear communication, sound judgement and a willingness to own mistakes when they happen are the foundations of successful strata management.
What keeps Matt motivated is the people he works with, both within the team and across client communities. He understands the pressures owners and committees face and always balances compliance with common sense. This measured approach has been shaped by years on the ground and a genuine desire to do the job right, no matter the challenge.
We provide Australia’s most professional and comprehensive strata management services across Greater Sydney and other parts of NSW. Our expertise spans residential, community, commercial and industrial strata schemes. It’s easy to switch to All Suburbs Strata Management. See the extensive range of suburbs our certified strata managers oversee below.
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FAQs
Why is reducing energy costs important in strata living?
Energy costs are rising across the board, and strata residents and owners corporations can benefit financially and environmentally by adopting practical strategies that reduce consumption and lower bills.
What simple steps can residents take to reduce their energy use?
Residents can optimise their air-conditioning settings, use ceiling fans, close blinds during hot days, switch to energy-efficient LED lighting and run appliances like dishwashers and washing machines during off-peak times to lower consumption.
How can small behaviour changes help with energy cost reduction?
Minor habits like unplugging idle devices, cooking during cooler parts of the day, using cold water for laundry and sealing gaps around doors and windows can make a noticeable difference to energy use.
What can an owners corporation (strata scheme) do to improve energy efficiency?
Owners corporations can organise energy audits to identify inefficiencies, upgrade common-area lighting to LED, maintain HVAC systems, improve building shading or landscaping and encourage natural ventilation to reduce reliance on air-conditioning.
Why might an energy audit be a good first step for a strata scheme?
An energy audit helps to assess current energy usage patterns and highlight areas where changes can deliver meaningful cost savings for both common areas and individual units before investing in upgrades.
How can better energy management benefit a strata building in the long term?
Improved energy management reduces utility costs, enhances resident comfort, supports environmental sustainability and can help future-proof the property against ongoing rises in energy prices.