How to reduce your energy costs in winter
Grab your winter woollies and a hot chocolate, because winter is here.
As temperatures drop, Queenslanders will start using indoor heating and opting for longer, hotter showers to keep warm.
With cost-of-living pressures continuing to put a strain on household budgets, it’s important to keep an eye on rising energy bills which can come from common ‘get-warm’ behaviours.
Quick wins to save on your energy bill
- Hot water use increases during the cooler months, so opt for shorter showers or a water efficient shower head.
- If you want to use the heat mode in your air conditioner, set the temperature between 18 to 20 degrees to help manage the energy usage.
- Make sure you only heat the room you are using and remember to draw curtains and close off doors to other rooms to keep the heat contained. If you have a ducted zone system, it’s equally as important to ensure you are only heating the room in use.
- If you can manage without air conditioning, hot water bottles and heat packs are also cost-effective ways to stay warm.
Long-term solutions to reduce your energy usage
If you’re looking for ways to reduce your energy bill in the long-term, there are some changes you can make to your home.
- Install solar on your home to gain greater energy independence and reduce your reliance on the grid.
- Opt for a more energy-efficient hot water system, like a heat pump.
- Maximise your solar self-consumption by using timers with your hot water, pool pump and washing machines to run during the day.
- If you already have a solar system installed, check it is operating efficiently with a solar health check.
- Queenslanders can also save on a home battery through the latest Australian Government rebate.
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Things to note
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