Personally, I find there’s nothing worse than being cold. Originating from Queensland, I’m used to the hot weather and it doesn’t worry me much, but the cold hits me like a tonne of bricks! Like many of you, my electricity bill soars during the winter months and there’s a number of reasons for this. Not only are we using heating products to keep us warm and toasty, but the nights are longer so naturally we use more lighting during winter.
With the cost of electricity already soaring in Australia, this winter is the perfect time to make your house more energy efficient. Not only will you save plenty of money, but you’ll also decrease your carbon footprint too. Recent studies indicate that during winter, electricity is the third highest expense behind rent and food, so to help you stay warm and save money, here’s how you can make your home more energy efficient this winter.
Rug up
One of the best ways to save money this winter is to dress for the occasion. Putting on plenty of warm clothing and blankets is dramatically cheaper than using electric heating. Even when you have central heating, adjust the temperature to a degree which is ‘just’ comfortable and use clothing and blankets to fill the gap. You’ll acclimatise much faster than you suspect!
Heating devices
Electric heaters are without doubt the biggest contributor to your electricity bill throughout winter. As an alternative, contemplate using a gas heater or a fireplace which have the advantage of warming rooms quicker than electric heaters but use far less electricity.
Lighting
With longer and darker nights, lighting is used much more often in winter without you even realising it. The lightbulbs you have installed in your house make a significant difference to your electricity bill, so contemplate changing any halogen lights for LEDs or CFLs which will save you hundreds of dollars during the course of the year.
Insulation
An effective insulation system in your home will not only keep you warmer in winter, but cooler in summer too. Depending on your home’s construction, you may have the capacity to insulate your roof, floors, and walls. While home insulation does consist of upfront costs, the savings in electricity over the next 10 years will certainly make up for it.
Windows
One place where heat escapes quickly from your home are through your windows. The best technique is to get double glazing on your windows, but this can be rather costly so contemplate using solid drapes which will preserve most of the heat. When the warmer months inevitably arrive, just switch your solid drapes for curtains which are more appropriate for warmer weather.
Eradicate drafts
One of the most cost-effective ways to decrease your electricity bill is to eradicate any drafts in your household. Any spaces in your doors and windows will allow warm air to escape and cool air to enter. Consider adding caulking to your window surrounds and draft excluders to the bottom of your doorways.
Use some common sense
A little common sense goes a long way in making your home more energy efficient too. When cooking, leave your oven open for a couple of minutes when you’re finished to heat up your kitchen and lounge. Moreover, don’t drain the hot water in your bath straight away. Shutting doors to cold rooms when you’re not using them and switching off heating appliances when you leave your house or go to bed are all efficient ways to cut down on your electricity bill.
If you’re experiencing any financial difficulties and finding it difficult to stay on top of all your bills, it’s always best to seek financial guidance as soon as possible. The sooner you act, the more alternatives are available to you, so if you need any help with your finances, get in contact with Bankruptcy Experts on 1300 795 575. Alternatively, visit our website for additional information: www.bankruptcyexperts.com.au
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