Chilly mornings and nights can lead to bill shock when spring arrives. Here are a few ideas to keep warm, without turning up the heater.
With several weeks of winter left to go, many of us will feel the temptation to crank up the heat on those frosty mornings; however, we’re also grappling with higher living costs, which can spike when we’re spending more time indoors and using energy to keep our homes warm.
Here are some ways to bring down winter power bills, while still staying cosy.
Block out draughts
Consider hitting the hardware store and investing in some draught-blocking materials. Draughts can get into our homes in a number of ways, including through doors and windows, exhaust fans and chimneys. You can buy rubber and plastic seals to block them off and keep your home warmer, which may mean you don’t need to use the heater as much.
Keep an eye out for a $300 government rebate
In the most recent Federal Budget, the Treasurer promised to give households a $300 energy rebate. The states and territories are still working with the Federal Government on how the money will be delivered to everyone, so it’s worth staying tuned to see how you’ll be paid.
Consider home insulation
Insulating your home can lock in heat in winter and keep it cool in summer, while reducing your energy bills. Estimates suggest fully insulating your home can cut your heating bills by between 40 and 50 per cent, with ceiling and wall insulation offering the most bang for buck. If you don’t have time to insulate fully before the end of winter, small changes – such as rugs on the floor – can help provide a barrier to keep heat in the room.
Keep curtains closed – except when sunny
During cold evenings and mornings, closing the curtains or blinds can help trap heat in a room. In the warmer parts of the day, however, opening up sun-exposed curtains and blinds can help bring up the temperature of a room.
Switch off appliances you don’t need
While it won’t completely offset the cost of running a heater, switching off appliances you aren’t using can help bring down your power bills. Think about turning off the TV at the power point, plus computers, printers and cooking appliances when they’re not in use.
Find energy-efficient ways to wash clothes
We all need to wash our clothes, towels and sheets, but approaching the task in certain ways can help reduce costs when electricity and water bills arrive. Consider washing only with a full load and using sunny days to air-dry washing outside where possible.
With just a few changes of habit, you could set your household up for a more energy-efficient winter and, hopefully, bring down the power bills.