Heating the entire house can be costly. Instead, shut the door to areas you aren't using and only heat the rooms you're using to save energy and cost.
When using your heater this winter, close curtains and blinds to keep the warm air in and reduce heat loss through your windows when there isn't any winter sunshine.
By setting your heater to between 18 and 20 degrees, you can keep your home warm and reduce costs. Every degree higher than this temperature can add around 15% to your gas bill.
Fit draught seals to window and door openings
To stay warm and save money on your gas bills this winter, consider fitting draught seals on the openings of windows and doors.
Fixed ventilation openings required for flueless and open flued gas heaters must not be blocked.
If you undertake draught sealing in your home and you have one of these types of heating, you should get a licensed gas fitter to check the safe operation of the appliances before they are used. Other indoor gas appliances, such as internal open flued gas water heaters or ducted heaters, should also be checked by a licensed gas fitter.
It is recommended that you have your gas appliances serviced at least every 2 years. Energy Safe Victoria provides further information on the safe operation of gas appliances.
Turn off non-essential appliances at the switch
This winter, a simple flick of the switch can save money and energy.
When not in use, turn non-essential appliances such as computers, printers, televisions and entertainment systems off at their power points.
Electronic devices can use up to 10% of your household's electricity on standby.
Replace your old heater with a more efficient one
Consider replacing old, inefficient gas heaters with reverse-cycle air conditioning units. Be sure to clean your heater filter regularly to help it run efficiently.
Run a full washing load
Are you looking to stay on top of your washing and energy bills this winter?
Try waiting until your washing machine and dishwasher are full before running a cycle.
For greater savings, choose the shortest washing cycle when you can.
Replace your old showerhead
Did you know that replacing your old showerhead with a more efficient one can save you around $160 yearly on energy and water bills?
You can also save between $40 and $80 annually by selecting the cold water setting on your washing machine.
Insulate your roof
Effective ceiling insulation can save you up to 20% on your cooling and heating costs. If you've already had insulation installed, check that it's been correctly installed and has the right rating (measured in 'R-value'). In Victoria, insulation rated R3.5 or higher should be used for ceilings.
When you are home and awake, set the thermostat as low as is comfortable. When you are asleep or out of the house, turn the thermostat back to save as much as 10% a year on your heating and cooling bills. A smart or programmable thermostat can make it easy to set back your temperature.
Don't use seat warmers or defrosters more than necessary. Check tire pressure regularly. Use the type of oil recommended for cold weather driving by the vehicle manufacturer. Remove accessories that increase wind resistance, like roof racks, when not in use.
The smaller the difference between the indoor and outdoor temperatures, the lower your overall cooling bill will be. You can easily save energy in the winter by setting the thermostat to around 68°F to 70°F while you're awake and setting it lower while you're asleep or away from home.
So lowering the heating temperature for mere few degrees will cut your electricity cost without you even noticing. Arm with cozy sweaters, learn to layer clothes properly (quite a fashion trend nowadays!), get some thermal underwear, a nice blanket, and you are ready to go even more degree down.
A temperature of 68 degrees Fahrenheit is often considered the best temperature to set thermostat in winter to save money. But why is 68 degrees the best winter thermostat setting? In winter, heat loss through walls, windows, and doors is a significant contributor to energy wastage.
Air conditioning uses the most electricity in a home in every region of the US and accounts for 15-23% of the average household consumption. At around 12.5%, space heating has the second largest share of consumption in every region except the South.
Wear several layers of light weight, warm clothing rather than one layer of heavy clothing. Wear hats, mittens, and blankets indoors. Close curtains and cover windows and doors with blankets. Everyone should try to stay together in one room, with the door closed, to keep in body heat.
Wind turbines operate more effectively in denser air. During winter times, air is cold and since cold air is denser than warm air, winter conditions improve the performance of wind turbines. Improved Power Generation: The cold and denser air during winter days boosts more energy, ensuring more power from wind turbines.
Wearing lots of layers rather than one thick piece of clothing will help trap your body heat and keep you warmer. Clothes made with insulating material, like wool jumpers and thermal underwear, are best for keeping you warm at home. Using a hot water bottle is also an inexpensive way to stay warmer for longer.
Introduction: My name is Edwin Metz, I am a fair, energetic, helpful, brave, outstanding, nice, helpful person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.
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