How to conduct a quick DIY home energy audit

Conducting a home energy audit is an excellent way to identify areas in your home where energy is being wasted and make simple improvements that can lead to significant energy savings. These savings can make a real difference in these challenging times with increasing power bills. To get started, here are some tips on conducting your own quick home energy audit, followed by ways to improve your energy efficiency.

Assess your appliances

Old or in poor condition appliances can consume a lot of energy. These appliances might be pool filters, small fan heaters, old fridges and air conditioning units that require maintenance.

To find out how much energy an appliance consumes without a smart meter, you can check the wattage on the base and calculate daily cost by: 1. Multiplying the wattage of the appliance by the number of hours used per day; 2. Divide this by 1000 to obtain your daily kWh; 3. Multiply by the rate per kWh on your energy bill to determine how much the appliance costs you each day. Another method is to turn off all your appliances except the one you’re testing and look at your electricity meter to see how many revolutions it does in a minute. The faster it goes, the more energy the appliance is using.

Tips to improve energy efficiency

• Check your appliances for signs of wear and tear and consider replacing them with newer, more energy-efficient models by following the Energy Star ratings. 

• Switch off unused appliances at the wall, as they are still drawing power even when not in use or on standby. Consider getting smart plugs, as you can set timers on appliances to be switched off when not in use.

• Avoid overloading the clothes dryer, and use it as little as possible by hanging the washing out to dry naturally.

• Use the washing machine and dishwasher only when you have a full load and a shorter cycle where possible.

Check your hot water usage

Hot water is used mainly in the bathroom, laundry, and kitchen. This means that by using less hot water, you can significantly reduce your energy and water costs while also lowering your greenhouse gas emissions. The hot water system is one of the biggest energy-consumption appliances in your home. Use the tips in the first section to check how much energy yours is consuming and whether it needs replacing, maintenance, or simply adjusting how you use it. 

Tips to improve energy efficiency

• Take shorter showers - showering under four minutes can save up to $200 annually on water and energy bills.

• Use a low-flow showerhead - the higher the water rating and the lower the flow rate, the less energy and water you will use.

• Wash clothes in cold water as much as possible.

• If your hot water system needs replacing, choose an energy-efficient one, such as a heat pump water heater or solar hot water system, if it is within your budget. Ensure it is the right system size for your household by getting advice from the supplier.

• Check that the thermostat on your hot water system is set to a minimum of 60 degrees celsius (to prevent harmful bacteria from forming) and no more than 65 degrees celsius. 

Assess your heating/cooling usage

How do you heat and cool your home? If you use split systems or ducted air conditioners, check that they operate at the right temperature each season and are serviced regularly, as a dirty air filter can restrict airflow and cause your system to work harder, increasing your energy consumption.

Tips to improve energy efficiency   

• Turn off lights, fans, air conditioners and appliances when you leave the room. 

• If you have an air conditioner, set it at around 25 degrees celsius for maximum efficiency when cooling or 18-20 degrees celsius in heat mode to warm your home efficiently. You can save up to 10% on cooling costs for every one degree that you raise the temperature.

• Get your air conditioning units serviced by a professional at least annually to ensure better air quality, improved energy efficiency, and lower running costs.

• Cleaning the dust filters per the manufacturer's instructions a few times a year can help ensure optimum performance.

Check for air leaks

Air leaks are one of the most significant sources of energy waste in homes. Identify air leaks in your home by checking the areas around doors, windows, and electrical outlets for gaps or cracks. You can use a smoke pencil or an incense stick to detect leaks—if the smoke or incense moves, you've found one.

Tips to improve energy efficiency

• Install weatherstripping around your doors and windows to seal gaps and cracks, preventing drafts and cool or hot air from escaping. This simple step can reduce your energy bills by up to 20%.

• Seal any gaps or cracks in your walls with caulk or foam sealant.

Inspect your insulation 

Check your attic, basement, and walls for inadequate insulation. Replace or repair any damaged or missing insulation to ensure that your home retains heat in winter and stays cool in summer. Insulation is also the most cost-effective way to improve your home's energy efficiency and comfort. For more information on insulation, visit https://www.yourhome.gov.au/passive-design/insulation 

Check your lighting 

Switching to energy-efficient LED bulbs and ensuring your light fixtures are in good condition can significantly reduce lighting energy consumption. LEDs use 75% less energy than halogen bulbs and last 5-10 times longer, reducing replacement costs and the number of bulbs that end up in landfills. A bonus is that they can fit in most existing fittings, and the initial cost of LEDs has a payback time of under a year.

Do you require an electrician to conduct your home energy audit?

If you find the above steps challenging and need expert assistance, our team of Gold Master Electricians can help you conduct a home energy audit by assessing your lighting, power, air conditioning, solar (if applicable) and appliances. You will receive a detailed audit report, including recommendations and an overall energy rating for your home. To schedule your home energy audit, please get in touch with our team at 1800 940 413 or info@ehlerthelectrical.com.au

Installing an electric vehicle charger at home

The electric vehicle uptake in Australia is rising, with a growing focus on reducing emissions and accelerating the electric revolution. If you already have an EV or are considering getting one, installing an EV charger at home has multiple benefits, such as convenience and potential cost savings, especially if you're using renewable energy such as the rooftop solar system. They can also be as fast as the public charging stations and around 3 to 10 times faster than a standard 10 amp wall outlet some EV owners use at home. Here are some things to consider before installing an EV charger at your home, as outlined below.

Determining the power supply for your EV charger

Before selecting which EV charger to get, you must check your grid connection and that your power outlet, wiring, and switchboard are suitable. Australian homes typically only have single-phase connections, so the top charge rate would be 7kW, adding up to 40km of range an hour. Some homes and most commercial premises with access to three-phase power could achieve charge speeds up to 120km an hour, depending on the charger.

If you’re unsure which power connection you have in your home, count the number of switches beneath the main switch on your home's switchboard. If there is one switch, you have single-phase power; if there are three switches, your home has a three-phase power connection.

If your home’s wiring or switchboard is old, it might need upgrading before the installation. A licenced electrician can assess this separately to determine the best option for your needs or as part of the installation quote.

The lowest cost option for charging an electric vehicle at home is to use excess solar power from your rooftop solar system or energy storage battery. Specific solar EV charger models can communicate with your solar inverter via an app and only charge when your system generates power. If you don't have a rooftop solar system, charging overnight at a lower off-peak rate is the next best option.

Choosing the right EV charger option

Numerous EV chargers are available on the market in Australia from multiple providers, ranging from basic Level 1 chargers, which plug into a standard wall outlet, to advanced Level 2 chargers, which provide a range of fast charging options from 7kW to 22kW and are ideal for fully electric vehicles.

For domestic customers, our team primarily installs level 2 charging stations from EVSE that are compatible with all electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles. Besides different brand types, they also range in power (kW), dimensions and plug types (universal socket or type 2 tethered, depending on the model). For example, 7kW Ocular charger models may provide up to 40 km of driving per hour of charge, whilst the 22kW chargers may offer up to 120km of driving per hour of charge.

Picking a suitable location for your EV charger

Most home chargers are wall-mounted, so the garage or carport is usually the best spot as it is easily accessible and near your car's charging port. Consider how you park your car in this location (i.e. nose-in or reverse-park) to ensure your charger can reach the charging port on your car. Whatever area you choose, we recommend keeping it away from sun or water exposure, especially if your charger is not weatherproof.

Getting the EV charger installed

Once you have done the background research above, the next step is to contact EV charger installers in your area to get a quote for the EV charger, installation, and power or wiring upgrades if you require it.

In Australia, dedicated EV charger providers and electrical companies sell chargers and offer installations. Please note that the EV chargers can only be installed by a licenced electrician who can help you determine the suitable charger for your electric vehicle and your home’s power supply.

Do you require assistance installing an electrical vehicle charger at your home or business?

Ehlerth Electrical team of Gold Master Electricians are qualified, experienced electric vehicle charger installers in South East Queensland. With our partner EVSE, we can provide numerous EV charger models and options for commercial and domestic uses. If you need an EV charger installed at your home or business, contact our friendly team via 1800 940 413 or info@ehlerthelectrical.com.au

What to do in an electrical emergency

Electrical emergencies can happen unexpectedly at home, work, or the community. They can be caused by damaged wiring, malfunctioning appliances, electrical fires, fallen powerlines and more. In such situations, quick and decisive action can help prevent further damage and ensure the safety of everyone involved.

Here are some essential steps you should take if you find yourself in an electrical emergency, depending on the situation.

If someone is receiving an electric shock

Firstly, if someone is receiving an electric shock, it's important not to touch them as it could also be dangerous for you. In such a situation, try to turn off the power source immediately. However, if you cannot access the power source, use a non-conductive object, such as a wooden broomstick, to separate the victim from the electricity source. Avoid using metallic objects as they conduct electricity.

Next, call the Ambulance Service on 000, Australia's primary emergency number. You can use this number for emergency assistance from fixed, mobile, and pay phones. If you're using a mobile phone, you can also use 112 as the emergency service number.

Then, administer first aid if possible until the ambulance arrives, and if the victim is not breathing, start cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).

If there are fallen overhead powerlines

In the case of fallen overhead powerlines, call 000 immediately. Do not touch anyone receiving a shock from the fallen powerlines, and keep others away from the fallen powerlines, as they can be deadly. Notify the police and the relevant electricity provider, such as Energex (13 19 62), for urgent assistance.

If there is an electrical fire

In an electrical fire, first cut off the power source by unplugging the device causing the fire if you can safely reach it. If not, turn the power off at the switchboard.

Next, try to put out the fire with a Class C fire (electrical fire) extinguisher or an electric blanket. If you don’t have those options and the fire is small, you can throw baking soda on it to smother it, as it releases carbon dioxide when heated and prevents the fire from getting the oxygen it needs.

Do not use water to put out an electrical fire if your power is still on, as it is a conductor of electricity and can potentially spread the fire and cause an electric shock.

If you cannot extinguish an electrical fire, it is crucial to evacuate immediately to prevent injury or loss of life. Close the door behind you to contain the fire and call 000 when you are safe. Do not re-enter the building until firefighters have arrived and contained the fire.

If you have managed to extinguish the fire, call an emergency electrician, who will inspect and repair the damage to the electrical source or equipment that caused the fire. The electrician will also advise when the power can be safely switched back on.

If you feel shocks & tingles from electrical equipment or metal fittings

If you feel a tingling or shock from electrical equipment, a tap or other metal fittings, it is crucial to take it seriously, as it could be life-threatening. If the shock is from permanent electrical equipment, like a stove or electric hot water system, stop using it immediately and contact a licensed electrician. If the shock is from a tap, pipe, or other metal fitting, call Energex immediately and ask them to check your property.

If you have an electrical emergency at work

Your employer must have first aid arrangements and plans to deal with emergencies in your place of work. If you are a business owner operating in Queensland and need advice, visit Work Safe Qld for more information.

Do you require an electrical safety inspection or an emergency electrician?

Ehlerth Electrical can assist with electrical safety inspections and maintenance for your home or business to reduce the risk of electrical emergencies. And if you ever need electrical assistance in an emergency, our team is available for emergency call-outs 24/7. Call us on 1800 940 413.

The importance of getting your air conditioner deep cleaned

Your air conditioning systems will likely work overtime with hotter than predicted summer approaching. If you are worried whether your AC unit is working at its optimum, now is the perfect time to schedule an air conditioning deep clean by a professional. But before you consider your next steps, let's dive into what a deep clean is and how it can impact your health, energy bills, and AC system longevity.

What is an air conditioner deep clean?

An air conditioner deep clean includes cleaning internal components such as coils, fins and drainage to remove the unit's dust, mould, and bacteria buildup. We recommend getting a deep clean annually to keep your air conditioner running at its best or even more frequently if you live in a dusty or humid area and your air conditioner runs overtime.

In the meantime, you can clean the dust filters yourself per the manufacturer's instructions - a few times a year is recommended to ensure optimum performance.

A professional should do a deep clean as it involves removing, thoroughly cleaning and sanitising (using non-toxic products) electric components, flushing the drain, testing the unit for any excess moisture, and checking the external unit for any damage, obstructions or mould growth.

Benefits of getting your air conditioner deep cleaned

Regularly cleaning and maintaining your air conditioning unit is crucial to ensure better air quality and energy efficiency, lower running costs and maximised unit life span.

When drawing in air from your environment, the air conditioning unit filters out pollutants like dust, pollen and dead skin particles to produce cool or hot air. However, over time, if the unit is not maintained, these contaminants can clog the system and lead to the formation of mould, dust and bacteria, which can be dangerous for individuals with respiratory issues or allergies. Additionally, a clogged system means the unit won't function optimally, leading to higher cooling costs and potential unit breakdowns that could be costly to fix.

Need your air conditioner deep cleaned by a professional?

Can't remember the last time you had your AC professionally cleaned? Give us a call! Ehlerth Electrical specialises in installation, maintenance, deep cleaning and repair for various air conditioning systems, including split and ducted, to ensure a year-round comfortable living and working environment. Contact us today to book.

Ehlerth Electrical Wins ‘Emerging Business of the Year’ at the 2023 electrical industry Excellence Awards

Brisbane based Ehlerth Electrical has won the Emerging Business of the Year Award for South Queensland at the Master Electricians Australia Excellence Awards on Saturday 5 August, in Brisbane. The team was recognised as finalists across nine categories.

The Emerging Business of the Year award recognises achievement and business growth in the critical early years. This category is applicable to new contracting businesses established less than seven years ago.

“I am thrilled for my team to be nominated across eight categories and win the Emerging Business of the Year Award in our region,” said Brent Ehlerth, Director and Founder of Ehlerth Electrical.

“Thank you to Master Electricians Australia for recognising small businesses in this category. The early years are challenging yet rewarding, and I thank my team for their hard work and commitment to safety, quality and excellent customer service they deliver daily.

“We continually strive to provide the highest quality workmanship and service and invest in our team and their learning and development, so it is a tremendous honour to be recognised for it and be celebrated amongst the country's top sparkies and electrical businesses.”

The Ehlerth Electrical team had a total of 9 finalists across 8 different categories in the South Queensland awards:

1. Emerging Business of the Year FINALIST and WINNER: Ehlerth Electrical

2. Master Electrician (Business) of the Year FINALIST: Ehlerth Electrical

3. Service Business of the Year FINALIST: Ehlerth Electrical

4. Women in Contracting Award FINALIST: Rachel Hayes-Weymouth

5. Electrician (Tradie) of the Year FINALIST: Joel Lawrence

6. Electrician (Tradie) of the Year FINALIST: Brock Preston

7. Apprentice of the Year (1st or 2nd year) FINALIST: Jared Taylor

8. Apprentice of the Year (3rd or 4th year) FINALIST: Ethan Apruzzese

9. Project of the Year (under $1M electrical spend) FINALIST: EV Charger Installations for the Department of Main Roads

Contact the team today if you need assistance in the following electrical fields: domestic, commercial, solar, air-conditioning, communications, industrial and hazardous areas.

Ehlerth Electrical's office is located at 35/16 Crockford Street, Northgate. Office hours are Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm but they also offer 24/7 service for emergency call-outs.

The Ehlerth Electrical team at the Master Electricians Australia’s 2023 Electrical Industry Excellence Awards

The simple guide to setting up a smart home

Home automation makes it easy to remotely control and monitor your home's lighting, security, entertainment and climate control. It provides convenience, can save energy costs, and give you peace of mind by enhancing home security, just to name a few! However, setting this up can be overwhelming and expensive if you are unfamiliar with the home automation technology.

That is why we have created a simple guide to setting up a smart home to get you started!

1 Choose a smart home hub

To begin, determine which areas you want to automate or remotely control, such as lighting, security, heating/cooling, or entertainment systems. Then, choose a smart home hub as your central control point for all smart devices. Some popular ones include Amazon Echo Dot, Aeotec Smart Home Hub, Google Nest Hub, Apple HomePod, and Samsung SmartThings.

2 Get compatible smart devices

Assess your current smart devices to see if they're compatible with your chosen smart home hub. If not, research and purchase smart devices that will meet your needs and can connect with your smart hub. For example, these smart devices might include light bulbs, power outlets, power switches or dimmers, speakers, locks, doorbell, washer/dryer, fridge, oven, air conditioner, TV, washer/dryer, robot vacuum, security cameras, thermostats and pet tech.

3 Set up the hub and devices

Once you have your devices, set up your smart home hub by following the instructions. This usually involves connecting the hub to your home’s Wi-Fi network and creating an account. Then connect and configure your smart devices by referring to each device's user manuals. You can group your devices according to rooms or functions within the smart home hub's app to make controlling and managing them easier. And if your smart home hub supports voice assistants, Alexa or Siri, set it up so you can control your devices using voice commands through the compatible smart speakers or your smartphone.

4 Schedule automation

Customise your routines and schedules to take advantage of automation features provided by your smart home hub. This might be scheduling for house lights to turn on and off at a specific time, or setting your air conditioner to turn on before you get home etc.

5 Test and optimise the hub and devices

After setting up your smart home, test the functionality of each device and troubleshoot any issues that may arise. As you expand your smart home setup, always check compatibility and security considerations for any new devices you plan to add.

---

Need assistance setting up your home automated system?

Ehlerth Electrical is a Brisbane-based team of award-winning Gold Master Electricians who provide the highest quality workmanship and service across various electrical fields. This includes communications services such as high-speed internet installation and repair, home and office automated systems, CCTV, security and access control systems. Please contact our team today if you need help setting up a smart home.

Electrical tips to keep your house safe this winter

Winter weather can bring about many electrical hazards in your home. Here are some electrical tips to keep your house safe this winter:

1 Don’t overload circuits

Avoid plugging too many devices into a single outlet or powerboard. Overloading circuits can lead to overheating and potentially cause a fire.

2 Check for safety switches

Safety switches can protect you and your family from electric shock by turning off the power in a fraction of a second if a leakage of current is detected. To see if a safety switch is installed at your home, look inside your switchboard for a ‘Test’ or ‘T’ button near the circuit breakers.

Even if your home has a safety switch, it only protects you for one circuit, such as power points. Consider having safety switches installed on all circuits in your home, including lights, air conditioning, oven, hot water and pool equipment circuits, even if they are on a separate tariff. Talk to a licensed electrician to have them installed.

3 Use extension leads safely

Avoid using extension leads as a permanent solution, especially for large electrical appliances. Ensure the lead you use is rated for the intended use (indoor or outdoor) and is in good condition without any frayed wires or visible damage. Do not run leads through open doors or windows, and fully unwind them before use to avoid overheating. We highly recommend installing more power points (by a licensed electrician) rather than using multiple double adaptors and power boards.

4 Use heaters with caution

Portable or plug-in heaters are a great way to keep warm during the winter, but they can be dangerous if not used properly. Inspect your heater if you have stored it during warmer months before re-using it. If the portable heater is damaged, have it inspected by a licensed electrician or replaced. If it is ok to use, remove dust before turning it on. Keep the heater away from flammable materials and never leave it unattended or switched on through the night when sleeping.

5 Be mindful when using electric blankets

When using electric blankets, make sure you never crease them and check for any kinks, broken heating wires or damage to the controller, supply cord or plug before use; never use sharp objects, like safety pins, to secure them in place; do not place heavy objects on beds when using an electric blanket.

6 Keep clothes dryer from overheating

Clothes dryers have caused fires after overheating, so ensure you keep the exhaust duct clear of obstacles to allow hot air to escape; clean the lint filter before each use; keep the immediate area well-ventilated during operation; and never overload the dryer.

7 Maintain your hot water system

In winter, we tend to use a lot more hot water, especially for hot showers or baths. To keep your tank running efficiently and prevent any problems from occurring, have your hot water system regularly serviced by a professional, such as a plumber or an electrician. They can also check that you have a tempering valve installed to ensure the water does not exceed 50 degrees Celsius when in use to minimise the risk of scalding.

Source: Electrical Safety Qld

---

Ehlerth Electrical is a Brisbane-based team of award-winning Gold Master Electricians who provide the highest quality workmanship and service across various electrical fields. If you need any electrical repairs or installations in your home, please contact our team today.

Why safety switches should be fitted to all circuits

Safety switches can save lives and protect your family against electric shock in your home. In Queensland, safety switches are mandatory on power circuits in homes that are being sold and domestic rental properties, but the risk still exists on other circuits. Homeowners should consider installing safety switches on all circuits to maximise their protection, such as the sub-circuits for lights, pool equipment, air conditioning, stove and hot water.

What is a safety switch?

A safety switch will turn off the power in a fraction of a second if a leakage of current to earth is detected. So it helps to prevent electric shock and possible electric burns by stopping the current flowing through a person. This situation can occur from a faulty power point or electrical appliance or if you accidentally hit a live wire. So it is essential to use electrical appliances, electrical wiring and extension leads in good working order. And if they are faulty, have them replaced or repaired by a licensed electrician or authorised service professional.

What does a safety switch look like?

Safety switches have a 'T' or 'test' button on the front. They can sometimes be confused with other devices on the switchboard, such as circuit breakers, which do not have a test function. Circuit-breakers effectively protect equipment and cable by quickly cutting power when there is a high current fault or overload that may cause a hazard. However, safety switches protect people by shutting off the electricity supply when it detects a leakage to earth.

How to test your safety switch

It is recommended to do push button testing every three months to ensure your safety switch continues to work correctly and is unobstructed by dirt or other matter.

You can easily test the safety switches by using the 'test' button and following these steps:

1. Push the button marked 'T' or 'test'. It works correctly if the safety switch flicks off and cuts the power to the intended circuits.

2. Check to see which lights or appliances have been turned off. The circuits turned off by the safety switch test mean they are protected by it. If it doesn't turn off the power, contact your licensed electrician to check it immediately.

3. After testing, turn the safety switch back on. For circuits with a refrigerator or air conditioner, wait two to three minutes before resetting to avoid possible appliance damage.

Source: Electrical Safety Qld

---

Ehlerth Electrical is a Brisbane-based team of award-winning Gold Master Electricians who provide the highest quality workmanship and service across various electrical fields. If you need assistance with your switchboard or to install additional safety switches, please contact our team today.