But don’t worry, there are some simple and effective ways to save energy and money this winter, without compromising on comfort or convenience. Here are 10 easy energy-saving tips you can try today.
Kick draughts where it hurts
Draughts can steal up to 25% of your heat in winter. Check your skirting boards and around your windows for any gaps and use weather strips or caulking to seal them up. And for the more obvious ones, those that come in beneath external and internal doors, invest in a few door snakes from your local hardware store and sling them along the bottom of the door. You can also use curtains, blinds, or shutters to add an extra layer of insulation to your windows.
Rug up
Instead of cranking up the heater, opt for an Oodie or a fluffy heated throw blanket to keep yourself cosy. Electric blankets and throws are great options during winter as they’re cheaper to run than heaters. They can save you around $150 compared to other types of heating.
If you’ve got hardwood floors, concrete or tiles, roll out the rugs. Not only is it jarring to wake up and pop your feet on the freezing cold floor, it’s not particularly energy-friendly – as these types of flooring don’t retain the heat (unless you’re lucky enough to have underfloor heating). By adding some rugs to your space, you’ll be adding an extra layer of insulation, meaning your heater won’t need to work as hard to warm up your space.
If you’re in the market to purchase a new rug, here are a few things to look for:
- Material: If you’re looking purely for warmth, a thick wool rug is definitely the way to go. If you’re looking for something warm, but also easy to maintain and clean, try looking into good-quality cotton.
- Thickness: As with any insulation, the thicker the better. The thicker the rug, the further the distance between your feet and the cold floor.
- Size – Obviously the larger the surface area, the better it will insulate. But if the rug you love doesn’t come in a bigger size, you can also arrange a collection of smaller rugs to your liking.
Soak up the sun
Take advantage of the winter sunshine and let it heat up your home. During the day, open your curtains and blinds to let the sunlight in. At night, when the sun begins to dip, close them to trap the heat inside. You can even use reflective surfaces like mirrors to bounce the sunlight around various pockets of your home and increase warmth.
Level up your lighting
Winter days are shorter and darker, which means you’ll probably be using more artificial lighting. Switching to energy-efficient LED light bulbs is an easy way to help reduce your energy usage. This simple swap could save you up to 75% on your lighting costs (that’s up to $16 per globe per year). You can also use dimmers, sensors or smart plugs to control your lighting and avoid wasting energy.
Flick the switch on your fans
Ceiling fans can help you save energy in winter by circulating the warm air that rises to the roof. Many fans have a summer and winter switch, for winter you’ll want your fan to spin clockwise and at a low speed, so that it pushes the warm air down without creating a draught.
Invest in the right heater
For the days you do need to flick on the heater, it’s important to ensure you choose the most efficient and appropriate one for your space and needs. For example, a reverse-cycle air conditioner can be more energy-efficient than an electric heater, as it can both heat and cool your home – an added perk in tropical or warmer climates.
If you prefer a gas heater for your space, our handy guide can help you find the right one for your home and needs.
Service your heating appliances
If you already have a reverse-cycle air conditioner, make time to have it serviced before winter kicks in and give your filters a good clean. Not only will this ensure dust and particles aren’t being recycled within your house, but it also means your air conditioner (heater) will work more efficiently. And, if there are any issues with your system, it gives you plenty of time to arrange repairs.
If you have a gas heater, make sure you’ve had it serviced within the last two years by a qualified gasfitter. Any gas heater can spill carbon monoxide (CO) — including old and new heaters, central heating units, space heaters, wall furnaces and even decorative log fires. Carbon monoxide can make you and your family sick, and it can be fatal. To avoid the risk of CO poisoning, it’s important to have your gas heaters serviced at least every two years by a qualified gasfitter, who will inspect your heater, ensure it’s running properly and test for any CO leaks.
Cook clever
Cooking can be a great way to warm up your home and your belly in winter, but it can also use a lot of energy. By using your oven and stove strategically, you can easily save energy. For example, if you’re cooking up a hearty winter feast, why let that residual oven heat go to waste? After you’ve finished, simply leave the oven door slightly ajar (make sure no little hands can touch any hot surfaces). Any extra heat that’s escaping will help warm your kitchen and living space.
If you want to save time, and energy, pull out the slow cooker. Not only are they beginner chef friendly, they’re energy-efficient. In fact, they use a little more energy than a traditional light bulb. And there are loads of hearty delicious recipes online to inspire this week’s dinners.
Slay energy vampires
Vampire power AKA standby power, is caused by appliances that aren’t being used still drawing power – and it can cost the average Aussie household between $104.07 and $176.99 per year! Slaying vampire power is as easy as switching off unused appliances at the wall, or investing in some smart plugs that can do this for you (you can even set timers for them).
Check your energy plan
One of the best ways to save energy, and money, this winter is to make sure you’re on the best energy plan for your household. You can compare our energy plans in just a few minutes online. It’s also worth checking whether you’re entitled to any concession rebates on your bill and ensure that your concession details are listed on your account.
