- If appropriate, put swimming pool pumps on an off-peak meter, ensuring they are in use when electricity is at its cheapest.
- Pool water temperatures general range from 25 to 27 degrees Celsius. The lower temperature is recommended for competition swimming, but this may be too cool for young children and the elderly. A one degree rise in temperature could cost 10 to 30 per cent more in energy costs, depending on your location. Set your thermostat accordingly.
- Turn the temperature down, or turn the heating off, whenever the pool won't be used for several days. This will help save energy and money. It's a myth that it takes more energy to heat a pool back up to a desired temperature than you save by lowering the temperature or turning the heater off.
- If sporting fields are being used at night, investigate sensors so you are not relying on the users to turn the lights off.
- New technology means that you can pass on the costs of lighting to end users, such as sporting clubs. Users will be more likely to conserve energy if the full costs are coming out of their pocket.
- Ensure any lighting, heating or cooling in indoor venues is not in use when the venue is empty. Consider installing timer switches or movement-activated lighting.
- Install more energy efficient compact fluorescent lighting.
- Keep external doors shut, as the hot or cold air outside makes your air conditioner or heater work harder for the same effect.
- Regularly service all heating and air-conditioning units to ensure they are operating efficiently.
- Check your thermostat and keep it around 21 degrees in summer and 19 degrees in winter. Every degree counts!
- Ensure your air-conditioning and heating systems are suitable for your business and the area it is cooling or heating.
- Install insulation. Heat transmitted through the roof can cause up to a 40 per cent rise in internal temperature. And in winter, insulation keeps the warm air inside.
- Turn off power to unused appliances. Don't leave things on stand-by.
