How to keep your home cosy without overheated power bills

How to keep your home cosy without overheated power bills

As winter approaches and energy costs continue to soar, keeping your home warm without breaking the bank becomes a priority for many households.

With electricity prices spiking in recent years, it’s understandable that families are seeking solutions to maintain a comfortable living environment at home without incurring exorbitant bills.

Fortunately, you can implement several affordable and immediate strategies to keep your home warm and cosy as the mercury drops while being mindful of your energy consumption and expenditure.

1. Optimal temperature management

Start by setting your thermostat to an efficient temperature range. According to energy.gov.au, maintaining a room temperature between 18 and 21 degrees Celsius is ideal for comfort and energy savings² . However, individual preferences vary, you may prefer a slightly warmer temperature to remain warm during those winter months. Remember, every degree you increase your heating can add up to 10% to your energy use, so adjusting your thermostat gently can make a noticeable difference.   

2. Layer up instead of cranking up the heat

Rather than relying solely on heating appliances, consider wearing an extra layer of clothing indoors. A pair of socks or slippers and a snug jumper can provide additional warmth, allowing you to keep the heaters or air conditioners at a lower setting without sacrificing comfort.

3. Open windows can cost

Up to 40% of a property’s heat can escape through its windows. Enhancing your home’s insulation with high-quality curtains and blinds can yield remarkable improvements in warmth retention at night. Opt for fabrics renowned for insulating properties, or choose curtains equipped with thermal lining.

Also, installing fitted pelmets (curtain boxes) above curtains is another effective method to minimise heat loss.

4. Maximise natural light and minimise draughts

Curtains play a crucial role during the winter season. Opening the drapes during the day allows sunlight to enter and naturally heat the space but remember to close them at night to retain warmth. Furthermore, it’s essential to seal any drafts around windows and doors to prevent heat loss and maximise the efficiency of your natural heating system.

5. Strategic room usage

Encourage family members to spend time together in common areas, such as the living room, rather than heating individual rooms. This practice helps minimise the need for multiple heating sources, resulting in significant energy savings over time. Ensure rugs placed on cooler surfaces such as tiles to help the room feel cosier.

6. Install a water-efficient showerhead

Heating water contributes significantly to energy expenses. Installing a water-efficient showerhead stands out as one of the most budget-friendly methods for reducing water consumption. What's even better is that you don't need to be particularly skilled with the tools to install them.

7. Consider alternative heating sources

Wood is a renewable and potentially cost-effective fuel source for heating homes. However, using sustainably sourced wood and operating airtight, slow-combustion heaters are essential for optimal efficiency and minimal environmental impact. Exercise caution when using fireplaces to prevent air pollution and ensure safety. Although high energy bills can significantly impact our living costs, there are genuinely budget-friendly strategies available to maintain a warm and cosy home this winter without adding extra pressure to the family budget.