Tips On How to Save Money on Your Electricity Bill this Winter

Personally, I find there’s nothing worse than being cold. Hailing from Queensland, I’m used to the stiffling sun and it doesn’t worry me too much, but the cold hits me like a tonne of bricks! Like many of you, my electricity bill soars through the winter season and there’s a couple of reasons why. Not only are we using heating systems to keep us warm and cozy, but the nights are longer so generally we use more lighting during winter.

 

With the prices of electricity already soaring in Australia, this winter is the perfect time to make your household more energy efficient. Not only will you save heaps of money, but you’ll also minimise 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. Wearing lots of warm clothing and blankets is notably cheaper than utilising electric heating. Even if you have central heating, adjust the temperature to a level which is ‘just’ comfortable and use clothing and blankets to fill the gap. You’ll acclimatise much faster than you suspect!

 

Heating units

Electric heaters are without doubt the leading contributor to your electricity bill during winter. Instead, look at 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 knowing it. The lightbulbs you have installed in your home make a huge difference to your electricity bill, so consider switching any halogen lights for LEDs or CFLs which will save you hundreds of dollars during the year.

 

Insulation

An effective insulation system in your home will not only keep you warmer in winter, but cooler in summer too. Based on your home’s construction, you may have the capacity to insulate your roof, floors, and walls. While home insulation does entail upfront costs, the savings in electricity over the next 5 years will most certainly offset it.

 

Windows

One location where heat escapes quickly from your household are through your windows. The best method is to get double glazing on your windows, but this can be rather expensive so look at using solid drapes which will preserve most of the heat. When the warmer months eventually arrive, just replace your thick drapes for curtains which are more suitable for warmer weather.

 

Eliminate drafts

One of the most affordable ways to decrease your electricity bill is to get rid of any drafts in your residence. Any spaces in your windows and doors will enable warm air to escape and cool air to get in. 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. Additionally, don’t drain the hot water in your bath immediately. Closing doors to cold rooms when you’re not using them and switching off heating appliances when you leave your house or go to sleep are all logical ways to cut down on your electricity bill.

 

If you’re experiencing any financial complications and finding it hard to stay up to date with all your bills, it’s always best to seek financial help as soon as possible. The sooner you act, the more alternatives are available to you, so if you need any help with your finances, talk with Bankruptcy Experts Maitland on 1300 795 575. Alternatively, visit our website for more information: www.bankruptcyexpertsmaitland.com.au