Stay Warm & Save Money
Believe it or not, it’s May already! The cooler weather is here and it’s this time of year that energy use in the home starts to increase as we start to use our heaters to warm the chilly nights and frosty mornings, often resulting in eye-watering energy bills.
On average, energy use increases up to 20% during the winter months, a financial burden that Aussie home owners might forget to factor into their budget. Although, it’s probably fair to say that anyone living in Orange through past Winters will be well acquainted with cold weather and huge heating costs.
With that in mind here are some tips we found on the Homes to Love website on how to stay warm during the cooler months to help minimise those costs.
HEATING
Almost 40% of household energy use relates to heating during winter. Buy the most energy efficient heater you can afford and only heat the rooms that need it. Keep the thermostat at 18-20C and be careful you don’t overheat your home. As a general rule, every degree above that you program your heater adds about 10% to your heating costs.
PROGRAM YOUR HEATER
Use your heater economically. Set it to switch on 20 minutes before you wake up then turn it off 20 minutes before you leave the house or go to bed. Use an electric blanket to warm your bed and then turn it off before you go to sleep.
SIZE MATTERS
Think about the size of the appliances for areas of the home you want to heat up. Use small energy-efficient heaters in places like the bathroom to save warming up the whole house instead.
CUT DOWN ON HOT WATER WASTAGE
Heating water is one of the biggest energy users in the household. Home owners can implement small changes to save energy, such as installing water efficient shower heads, utilising the cold water setting on dishwashers and washing machines and using a timer in the shower.
DON’T WASTE ENERGY
In winter, it’s important to avoid using energy wherever you can. Always turn off your electric appliances when they are not in use. If it’s sunny outside, hang out your clothes rather than putting them in the dryer. Turn off the heater and pile some extra blankets on your bed to stay warm at night and always remember to turn your heating off before you leave the house in the morning.
PUT YOUR CEILING FAN INTO WINTER MODE
Many ceiling fans have a switch (above the blades) which will allow you to change between summer and winter mode. If you put the fan into winter mode, it will reverse the movement of the blades and force the warm air that is trapped at the ceiling, down into the room to cycle with the cool air. This will warm up your room in winter. For the best effect, keep your fan on low speed.
CHECK YOUR WINDOWS
Windows lose almost ten times more heat than walls, so it’s important to make sure they are up to scratch coming into winter. Check for any gaps around your windows, as these can significantly contribute to heat loss. Ensuring any cracks are completely sealed could see you earn the cost back in two to three bills. You could even consider double glazing your windows which is a great way to keep more heat in the home.
USE YOUR CURTAINS & BLINDS
Speaking of windows, use your curtains or window coverings wisely. Let in the sun during the day (particularly on north-facing windows) and close them at night to seal any draughts around windows or doors.
LET IT VENT!
Make sure any heating vents are kept clear and that any rugs or furniture that are in the way are moved, to ensure heat is circulated around the room as efficiently as possible.
SEAL UP ANY HOLES IN WALLS OR FOUNDATIONS
Any cracks or holes will allow precious heat to escape. Use weather stripper for doors and windows and gap filler for cracks in the wall.
GET THE PROFESSIONALS IN
When was the last time your roof was maintained? Do you have any leaks? Now is the time to get all your household issues fixed. The less opportunity for heat to leave the house, the warmer you’ll be and the less energy you will waste! Make sure your home is well insulated. It keeps your house warmer in winter, cooler in summer and can cut your heating and cooling costs by up to a third.
LAYER UP
Before you turn the heater on, pop on a cosy jumper or dressing gown and then see how you feel. When dressing in winter, it’s best to wear several thin layers. This helps to insulate you and makes it easier to add or remove clothing depending on the temperature. It’s also best to opt for materials that retain heat, such as wool and fleece. Also, make sure that you keep your feet warm with socks or slippers as this will help your whole body retain heat.
