Now that we’re in the middle of winter, there’s no better time to evaluate your energy use to see if there’s anything you can do to avoid a hefty electricity bill come the end of the quarter.
Around a third of the average household’s energy consumption during the colder months is used to power heating appliances that keep the home at a comfortable temperature. This doesn’t have to be the case.
This week we have we come up with some ideas on how to stay warm while keeping a cool head with your energy use. How many of these tips are you following?
Between 18 and 21 degrees is plenty.
If you’re lucky enough to have a thermostat, keep it at a sensible level. Every one degree higher that you set a thermostat increases the energy usage costs for that appliance by up to 10 per cent.
Close doors and windows.
Simple to do and often forgotten, always close doors to unused rooms to prevent warm air from escaping. Likewise, close all windows. The laundry and bathroom are ‘hotspots’ for losing household warmth, so block them off.
Close curtains around the house.
By all means let the sun’s warmth in during the day, but close the curtains or blinds before the sun goes down to provide the room with insulation.
What is your energy star rating?
Like many things, cheaper doesn’t mean better. Bargain heating appliances tend to be the most expensive to run and the least efficient at producing heat. Check your current devices and see if you’re due an upgrade.
Dress appropriately.
Be sensible. The best way to save money on winter heating is to wear warm clothes. Even some of our toughest ‘Hubbies’ have a few blankets or throws lying around the house.
Want some more info about winter heating? Check out this great guide by Ausgrid.
