Tips to cut your bills without compromising your pet's happiness.
Posted 8th March 2021 by Julia Sakr
Updated 9th December 2024
Is your dog's comfort costing you?
Do you leave the lights on when your dog is home alone? If so, you're not alone. Research from the UK reveals that millions are spent each year by pet lovers leaving on TVs, radios, lights, heaters, and fans to ensure their pets feel comfortable while they're away.
A study by Uswitch found that over 80% of pet owners leave at least one electrical appliance on for their dog when they’re out. The most common appliances include: Lights, Heating and Fans, Entertainment. These habits can significantly increase household energy usage, particularly when paired with additional gadgets like monitoring cameras, GPS trackers, and pet activity trackers.
With Australians paying some of the highest energy bills globally and 63% of households owning pets, it’s clear this trend isn’t limited to the UK. Australia has over 4.2 million dogs, and pet owners may also be unknowingly driving up their energy costs through similar habits.
How to Reduce Energy Costs Without Sacrificing Pet Comfort
Tip #1
Install Curtains or Window Screens
Curtains and window screens help regulate indoor temperature by keeping out excess heat in summer and retaining warmth in winter. This reduces the need for fans or heaters, saving energy while keeping your home comfortable for your pets.
Tip #2
Invest in Cooling Mats or Blankets
Instead of using fans or air conditioning, try pet-specific cooling mats/bed covers for summer or blankets for winter. They keep your pet comfortable without running up your electricity bill.
Tip #3
Turn the Lights Off
Pets rely on natural light and don’t need artificial lighting during the day. Unless your home is completely dark, there’s no need to leave lights on for them.
Tip #4
Close Doors to Unused Rooms
If your pet stays in one area of the house, close off unused rooms to avoid cooling, heating, or lighting unnecessary spaces.
Tip #5
Switch to a Cheaper Energy Plan
Electricity prices have spiked across many areas, making it a good time to compare energy providers. Look for plans with off-peak rates or time-of-use pricing to save money when powering appliances during the day.
Quick Answers to Questions About Saving Energy with Pets
Do pets need lights, heaters, or TVs left on when we’re out?
Not always! While many pet owners leave appliances running to comfort their pets, these habits can significantly increase energy bills without adding much value for your pets. Pets are often fine with natural light and a cozy space.
What are the most common energy-draining habits for pet owners?
- Leaving on lights, heating, fans, or TVs/radios.
- Using additional gadgets like cameras, GPS trackers, or activity monitors.
How can I keep my pet comfortable without driving up energy bills?
- Install curtains or window screens: They regulate indoor temperatures naturally.
- Use pet-specific cooling or warming products: Cooling Covers and blankets are great alternatives.
- Turn off unnecessary lights: Pets don’t rely on artificial lighting during the day.
- Close unused rooms: Contain heating or cooling to the space your pet stays in.
- Compare energy plans: Look for off-peak rates or energy-efficient options to save more.
Is this a Problem in Australia?
With over 4.2 million dogs in Australia, many pet owners unknowingly drive up their energy bills by leaving lights, heating, fans, or TVs on for their pets. This behavior mirrors trends seen in the UK, but it’s particularly significant in Australia, where energy prices are among the highest in the world. Small changes in habits can help pet owners save money while ensuring their pets stay comfortable.
Article by Shubhda Khanna Nag- Mozo