We are the first to admit we were very lucky to experience a very long extending summer in Melbourne. That warmer weather is coming to an end and we now welcome the winter. It’s not unknown knowledge that utilities expenses have crept up in price over the last 3 years.
Here we offer you some energy saving tips to help reduce your bill this winter.
- Don’t heat the entire home – If you have a spare living room, bedroom or study that isn’t being occupied, close the vents of your ducted heating and only heat the areas you and your family spend your time.
- Close doors – Closing certain doors that block rooms from the house are a good way to restrict warm air from leaving your home. Closing your bathroom, toilet and laundry doors will go a long way.
- Keep your window furnishings closed – This may sound bizarre as most of us assume the sunlight through the windows will help heat our home. Did you know that more than one-third of heat can be released through our the windows.
- Adjust the thermostat – This will ensure that don’t waste energy.
- Closing doors help, but what about the drafts – Closing doors will keep heat in the home, but the cold wind drafts may still make their way in. Having door seals, draft-proofing strips and door snakes help reduce heating costs dramatically.
- Not all heating products are made equal – The older products may be reliable, but they may no longer be energy-efficient. Take a look at your current heater energy ratings and ensure they are energy-efficient.
- Washing – wash your clothing in colder water
- Switch off – all appliances at the wall
For more tips on winter visit our blog on ‘how to prevent condensation this winter‘.
What else can we do?
We can heat our families up in so many ways. It doesn’t always have to be energy based methods like gas and electricity. You can:
- Use heat packs or even water bottles – These are really effective. Put them on your lap when watching a movies, or place them in your bed before you sleep. These are a low cost method to keep warm. Much cheaper than a conventional heater or electric blanket.
- Wear more clothes – We understand when we get home, it is uncomfortable wearing a jacket at the dinner table or on the couch. Instead of wearing a t-shirt or bare feet when the heater is on, try wearing a long-sleeve top, soft warm jumper and socks. You may find the heater isn’t needed.
- Warm your hands and feet – It’s time to bring out those gloves, thick socks, and beanie. Yes, it’s okay to wear them indoors!
- Use a hot water bottle – Rather than using the electric blanket, try the traditional method of warming up your bed. It’s also nice to cuddle up with on the couch.
If you are looking to buy your new/next home this winter, please contact us.
While we have taken care to ensure the information above is true and correct at the time of publication, changes in circumstances and legislation after the displayed date may impact the accuracy of this article. If you want to learn more, please contact us. We welcome the opportunity to assist you.
May 2019
