WINTER is here and as the temperature drops, we all want to stay warm.
However, cranking up the heat can lead to higher energy bills.
The good news is that you don’t have to sacrifice comfort for savings.
By implementing a few smart strategies, you can stay warm and keep your finances in check.
Use these five proactive tips to help you save money and stay snug during the colder months.
Layer Up:
Instead of simply relying on heating options to keep you comfortable, consider layering up with warm clothing.
Pull on thick socks, a jumper, scarf, or beanie to hold onto your body heat.
This way, you can turn the temperature settings down by a few degrees and still feel comfy.
Grab a warm blanket or doona to snuggle up with on the couch while reading or watching TV.
Maximise Natural Heat:
Take advantage of the sun’s natural warmth during the day.
Open your curtains or blinds and let the sunlight stream in.
Position yourself near windows to soak up the heat. Keep the curtains closed at night to insulate the rooms and prevent drafts.
Make sure to seal any gaps or cracks around windows and doors to minimise heat loss. Then enjoy a steaming cup of tea, or some warm soup to heat yourself from the inside.
Optimise your Heating
To make your heating system more efficient and cost-effective, conduct regular maintenance.
Clean or replace filters to ensure proper airflow. These days many home heating options are controlled by an app or tablet.
Regulate the temperature and reduce energy consumption when you’re out of the house or asleep. By optimising the temperature, you can stay warm while saving on the electricity bill.
Adopt Energy-Saving Practices:
Small changes in daily habits can add up to significant savings over time.
Lowering the temperature by a degree or two can make a noticeable difference in energy consumption.
When leaving a room or area of the house, remember to turn off the heat or lower it to a minimum. Use a trusty door snake to prevent cold air from seeping in under doors.
Additionally, make sure the hot water system is set to an appropriate temperature to avoid unnecessary heating costs. Plus, encourage the family to keep showers short; there’s nothing more uncomfortable than a cold shower.
Leverage Alternative Heating Sources:
If you’re worried about the cost of your split-system heating, then consider using portable heaters with energy-saving features to warm specific areas of your home.
However, always follow safety guidelines and don’t leave them unattended. Another option is using a fireplace or wood stove if you have access to firewood.
They provide efficient heat and create a cosy ambiance while reducing your reliance on electricity or gas.
Just be mindful of the impact on air quality, particularly if you have anyone in the family with asthma or breathing issues.
Winter is a time for warmth and comfort, but that doesn’t mean your wallet needs to suffer. By implementing these proactive and positive money-saving tips, you can stay warm while keeping your energy bills in check.
Stay warm, save money, and make the most of the cooler months.
