Invest in some winter bedding
Do a linen cupboard audit and see what you’re working with leading into winter. Flannelette sheets are a great way to keep warm as the evening temps start to drop, especially if you’re in a state that doesn’t bear the brunt of winter (we’re looking at you QLD and NSW). If you do happen to be in one of the chillier states, electric blankets and throws are great options during winter as they’re cheaper to run than heaters — only heating up the bed not the whole room. They can save you around $150 compared to other types of heating.
Does your doona need an upgrade?
Who doesn’t love a ‘doona day’ when the weather is cold and bleak. Depending on how your house is kitted out – floorboards, tiles, carpet – it may be worth investing in a seasonal doona to snuggle up with. Many bedding stores offer winter-specific doonas, alternatively, opt for a wool or feather version for maximum warmth. If your home has carpet, cotton or microfibre quilts (which provide lighter insulation) may be toasty enough to get you through the season.
Clean your split system and have it serviced
If you have a reverse-cycle air conditioner, make time to have it serviced before the chill 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. While you’re at it, if you have ceiling fans, switch them over to ‘winter mode’ (they should rotate clockwise) so they push the hot air down.
Prep your fireplace
If you’re fortunate enough to have a fireplace – the ultimate cosy spot during winter – you’ll want to make sure you have a few things sorted before the big chill hits. Now is a great time to have your chimney professionally cleaned and inspected, and to stock up on plenty of kindling and firewood. It’s also a good idea to make sure you have dry storage for the wood, so that you’re not caught without heating due to morning dew or rainy days.
Get your gas heater serviced
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.
Check your smoke alarms
Chances are you’re going to be using heating appliances – or your fireplace – more during winter, raising the risk of house fires. Make sure you change the batteries in your smoke alarms, give them a good dust and check they’re in working order. It’s also important to ensure your smoke alarms are positioned properly throughout your home. The Country Fire Authority recommends that smoke alarms are installed in every living area and bedroom, and are positioned in the middle of the ceiling. Check your state’s fire and emergency services website for more detailed information.
Make sure you have enough LPG
If your home uses LPG cylinders for cooking, heating or hot water, check that you’re topped up, or organise a delivery, so you’re ready for winter. The colder months can often mean longer showers (or baths), putting the heater on to get nice and cosy and favouring hearty home-cooked dishes over lower-energy options (like salads) – resulting in using more gas. If you’re an Origin LPG customer, you can order online via My Account in just a few minutes.
Rug up
No, not you. Well, yes you, but we’re not talking about clothes, we’re talking about rugs. If you’ve got hardwood floors, concrete or tiles, now’s the time to invest in some 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 have to work as hard.
Here are a few things to look for when purchasing a rug:
- 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.
Dig out your favourite slow cooker recipes
Let’s be honest, motivation is often hard to come by when the days get colder. And who wants to have to think about cooking dinner after a long day? Slow cookers are the perfect life hack during winter. They’re beginner chef friendly, there’s loads of recipes online and they’re energy efficient. In fact, they use a little more energy than a traditional light bulb. So, you can have something slow cooking all day while you work – saving your energy and energy at home. Win-win!
Don’t forget about your outdoor space
Store outdoor furniture
Give all your outdoor furniture a good clean and tuck it away in the shed or garage – especially outdoor sets with cushions – so it doesn’t get dirty or end up with mildew or rust due to morning dew. If you don’t have a spot to store them, a tarp and some rope will do the job.
Give your gutters a good clean
Now’s also a good time to give your gutters a clean out, getting rid of any autumn leaves and dirt that may have accumulated. Clogged gutters can be a real nuisance, causing all kinds of problems from drainage issues to water leaks inside the house – things you don’t want to have to deal with when it’s chilly outside!
Trim back trees and branches
Give unruly trees and branches a good snip (or enlist a professional) to ensure they’re not hanging over your roof. If they’re getting a little too close to your power lines, reach out to your local distributor and let them know. Not only will this help keep your gutters clean, but it can also help prevent your power from getting knocked out in a storm. And if you have solar panels, it will ensure you’re getting the most out of them. With the days getting shorter, and more cloudy days for some of the country, it’s important to ensure that there’s nothing else contributing to additional shade on your solar panels – it will also help you maximise winter sun in the house.
Draught proof your home
Draughts can steal up to 25% of your heat in winter. Check your skirting boards for any gaps and seal them up with a sealant gun. 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.
Whatever the season, the best way to save on your energy bills is to create good energy habits, make sure you’re on the right energy plan for your household’s needs and ensure any concessions you may be entitled to have been added to your account.
