Winter is coming and most of us have already started heating our homes. As the weeks go by and the weather gets cooler, our energy bills will gradually increase. It is estimated that the average Australian household will spend 20% more on energy during winter months than in summer. Keeping warm shouldn’t be expensive so we put together some options and ideas for you to keep the bills down and the temperatures up.
Temperature
The higher the room temperature, the more you can expect to pay so it’s best to keep your heater set to 20 degrees to avoid overheating which is also dangerous. If you don’t have a heater yet then we suggest buying one that is energy efficient (obviously).
Timer
Hopefully your heater has a timer. If so, you should schedule it for when you will need the heat most – for example, 30 minutes to an hour before you wake up and again before you go to sleep.
Hot Water
Heating water easily adds up on your energy bill so try to use cold water whenever possible (dish washing and laundry). There are even efficient shower heads you can use.
Windows & Walls
You can lose a great deal of heat if your windows and walls aren’t up to par – this can be because of single glazing, cracks, or gaps. Make sure to check both windows and walls thoroughly before winter hits so you can sort them in time with gap fillers or weather strippers.
Curtains
When the sun goes down, curtains are a great way to retain heat especially if they are thermal. Keep the curtains open during the day to let the sun work its magic.
Save Energy
To compensate for the extra energy being used, it’s a good idea to cut back on other energy expenses. You can turn off all electrical appliances when not in use, you can turn off your internet when not home, etc.
Recycle Heat
If there is heat coming from other appliances, you can utilise this to warm a room. For example, leave the oven open after use or leave the bathroom door open after showering or blow drying your hair.
Size
It may be obvious, but a good reminder – small heaters should be in the smaller rooms and larger heaters in larger spaces.
Bundle Up
The best way to save energy is to bundle up in warm clothing and use warm blankets to avoid using the heater at all (if your home is well insulated). Wool, especially Merino, and fleece are some of the best materials for retaining heat.
Seek Advice
And finally, if you’re really uncomfortable at home, it’s worth seeking advice from a professional. A warm home is not only comfortable – it is healthy for you and your family.
