As the weather cools down, heating your home can become one of the biggest contributors to your energy bill. Small changes to the way you heat and use energy around your home can help improve comfort and reduce energy consumption during winter.
Heating tips
Set your heater to an efficient temperature
For most homes, setting your heater between 18°C and 20°C provides a comfortable temperature while helping to manage energy use. Every degree higher can increase energy consumption.
Heat the rooms you are using
Close doors to unused rooms and focus heating on the areas where you spend the most time. This can help your heating system work more efficiently.
Make the most of natural sunlight
Open curtains and blinds during the day to allow sunlight to naturally warm your home. Close them again in the evening to help retain warmth.
Dress for the season
Wearing warm clothing, slippers and using blankets can help you stay comfortable without needing to increase your heater temperature.
Keep warm air in
Seal draughts
Gaps around doors, windows and floors can allow warm air to escape. Draught stoppers, weather seals and door snakes can help reduce heat loss.
Close curtains at night
Curtains and blinds provide an extra layer of insulation and can help keep warm air inside your home.
Check insulation
Well-insulated ceilings, walls and floors can improve your home's energy efficiency and help maintain a comfortable indoor temperature.
Hot water savings
Reduce hot water usage
Hot water can account for a significant portion of household energy consumption during winter. Consider taking shorter showers and washing clothes in cold water where suitable.
If you have mixer taps, when needing cold water ensure the tap is completely turned to the cold setting.
Fix dripping taps
A leaking hot water tap can waste both water and the energy used to heat it.
Use your dishwasher wisely
Only run the dishwasher when it’s full and use eco mode by default. Consider skipping pre-rinsing dishes (just scrape food off) and air-dry instead of using a heated drying cycle.
For more on hot water savings, see: Energy efficiency tips: hot water.
Appliance tips
Use reverse-cycle air conditioners efficiently
Reverse-cycle air conditioners are generally one of the most energy-efficient ways to heat your home. Clean filters regularly and keep vents clear for best performance.
Turn appliances off when not in use
Switch off appliances, chargers and entertainment devices at the wall when they are not being used to reduce unnecessary energy consumption.
Use energy-efficient appliances
When replacing appliances, look for products with higher energy star ratings to help reduce ongoing energy costs.
Laundry and drying
Make use of winter sunshine
When weather permits, dry clothes outside instead of using a clothes dryer.
Dry full loads
If using a dryer, wait until you have a full load and clean the lint filter regularly to improve efficiency.
Kitchen tips
Cook efficiently
Using lids on pots and pans helps food cook faster and uses less energy. Consider using appliances such as slow cookers, air fryers or microwaves where appropriate, as they can be more energy efficient than conventional ovens.
Every household is different, and energy usage can vary depending on the size of your home, the number of occupants, appliances used and individual lifestyle choices. Small changes can add up over time and may help reduce your overall energy consumption during winter.