TIPS TO SAVE ON HEATING COSTS THIS WINTER
We’re all spending a lot more time at home these days due to coronavirus, but while the temperature is definitely dropping – you might be noticing the power bill is doing the exact opposite. Here is a few tips on how to save on heating costs this winter.
Why Are My Bills Higher In Winter?
Here’s the thing, electricity and gas bills almost always increase during winter. Why’s that? Well, odds are that you’re spending a lot more time at home and using your heater and appliances to keep you entertained. Whereas in summer, even though we might be dialling up the air con, we tend to be out and about more. This means more power use and consumption in winter, eventually contributing to higher bills. Another reason? If there’s a staggering difference between the temperature outside and inside of your home, your appliances and heating systems will have to work that much harder to keep your home nice and warm. But, that’s just the beginning. Get ready for the breakdown.
What Part Of The Household Uses The Most Energy In Winter?
According to Origin Energy, heating and cooling account for a massive 40% of energy bills. Household appliances like computers, microwaves, and kettles, are high up there too, taking up 23% of your average winter bill. After that, hot water systems account for 21%, while refrigeration, lighting and cooking make up the remaining 16%. Crazy right? The good news is, there are a range of simple changes that make a big difference to energy costs.
What Can I Do To Bring Down Heating Costs?
If you’re looking for ways to bring down the cost of bills in general then heating is a great place to start. By addressing a few key things you’ll get lots of bang for your buck and free up those pennies to spend on much more fun things.
Block Draughts – A gap under the door or a crack in the floor might seem like no big deal. But, a cold draught can be a big contributor to rising heating bills. Sealing up these gaps can stop draughts and make a huge difference to the temperature of your home. Which, in turn, can save you a lot of money in power bills.
Install Higher Quality Insulation – If you a serious about saving on your energy bills then installing higher quality insulation is very worthwhile. Although it costs more upfront it more than makes up for it in the long run. Plus it also keeps your home nice and cool in summer.
Turn Down Your Thermostats – Instead of turning your heating off, let’s try turning it down. Every degree you reduce can save up to 10% on your energy bills. Turning your thermostats down to anywhere between 18-20 degrees will keep you toasty warm during those colder nights, while reducing the costs of your energy bills. As it takes far more energy to reheat the whole home again.
Window Glazing – According to research commissioned by the Australian Government, 40% of the heat within your home escapes through your windows during winter. Glazed windows act as a form of insulation and can have a profound effect on room and home temperature. In fact, 87% of a room’s heat can be retained with double glazed windows.
Check the Energy Rating of Your Heating Appliances – When it comes to energy consumption, all too often we fail to realise that a small appliance like a portable electric heater with a fan is the biggest offender. Different heating appliances draw and consume energy at different rates, so it makes sense to check the energy ratings of appliances. By opting for more efficient heating appliances you can save on costs.
Here at Hurst Homes we are big on energy efficiency as HIA GreenSmart Professional. From the solar orientation of your home, to insulation and double glazing, and the heating and cooling appliances we install. We ensure your needs are met and running costs that be be reduced are where possible. We also get all of our homes individually energy rated for our clients so they know how their house compares to others when they go to sell. For a free preliminary estimate on your dream home contact us today on 0438 692 962.
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