Smart ways to cut your energy costs this winter and still stay warm

As temperatures plummet outside and the cost of heating starts to sneak up on you it’s a good idea to start thinking of ways to help save on your electricity. Whether you live in a cool climate or it stays pretty balmy all year round, chances are your power bill will feel the effects of the cooler months.

Here’s some easy energy saving tips to help you reduce your household’s energy use.

1. Stop your home leaking heat Look for gaps and air leaks where skirting meets the wall, brick meets wood trimming and where pipes and cables leave the house.* Try using a silicone sealant or if you’re renting try one of those “snake” draught excluders under doorways and other areas where the cool air sneaks in.
2. Switch to energy saving bulbs We can all agree that winter months are shorter and darker. Lighting can account for a large proportion of the household power, so it’s no surprise that switching to more energy-efficient bulbs is one of the quickest and easiest way to save on power consumption. LED lights are a great option, and use less energy than standard bulbs and can even last longer.** You can also buy smart bulbs in most hardware and appliance stores and with an app on your phone you can turn them on or off as it suits you. A great idea is to have them turn on just before you get home which feels welcoming after a long day at work.
3. Be smart with your heaters Keep your temperature between 18°C-20°C, which is the most energy efficient temperature for most units. Your costs can increase by up to 10% for every degree you hit over 20!^ You also don’t need to heat every room in the house. Only heat the rooms you use and close the doors of rooms you’re not using. And if you live somewhere warm try to reduce your air conditioner usage and consider using a ceiling fan which can use less energy. Reduction in intensity and frequency of heating and cooling offer great savings.
4. Switch it off! Turn appliances off at the power point when you’re not using them. This is one that often gets forgotten about in a lot of households. You may not be aware that even if your appliances are turned off on the appliance itself, if the power point switch is not turned off, electricity is still flowing through and costing you money.** A simple way to remember is whenever you finish using a device switch the power point off straight away.
5. Use your curtains and blinds Your curtains and blinds can help prevent heat escaping from your windows but it can also help you draw in heat from the sun throughout the day. Set yourself a daily routine and let the sun in of a morning to warm the house. In the afternoon close the curtains or blinds to keep the heat in.
6. Heat up the sheets What could be more cosy than climbing between toasty sheets when you are about to go to sleep? Maybe your first reaction is to turn on your heater before heading to bed. Instead of heating a whole room why not invest in an electric blanket? You only need to turn it on 10 minutes before heading to bed.^^ Or even better get yourself a hot water bottle - it sure makes the best foot warmer!
7. Layer up and save! There’s nothing wrong with having an extra layer or three of clothing on especially if you are in the comfort of your own home. If you look like a marshmallow - no one is going to see you! If you’re finding yourself wanting to turn on and turn up the heater make sure you consider layering up properly first. Get out your thermals, bed socks, scarves, gloves, ugg boots, beanie and pop them on – you’d be surprised how quickly you can warm up!

References:
* Energy Australia. How To Draught Proof Your Home
** Choice, Should you turn appliances off at the power?
*** Leading Edge energy, 10 ways to save money on lighting
^ Origin Energy, 5 winter energy saving tips
^^ Energy Australia, Why you should use an electric blanket this winter