As the Game of Thrones quote goes, “Winter is coming”. Being in Australia, we do tend to like warmer temperatures, so as soon as the cooler weather hits, we crank up the heating – but that can be a problem when it comes to power bill time.
You may not be feeling the chill just yet, but thankfully that means you have time to get prepared and put things in place to help keep your winter energy bill as low as possible.
1. Understand how you use energy
Dig out last year’s electricity, water, and gas bills and see how much energy you used over winter. Your bill will detail how much you paid, so you can get an idea of how much money you could need to cover this winter.
Bear in mind that energy prices have increased recently, so you’ll likely need a bit of a buffer. If you need help getting a budget started so you can save more, give mymo by P&N Bank a try.
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mymo by P&N Bank is your personal banking buddy in a neat little budgeting app. You can track your spending and bills, set up budgets, and keep an eye on your savings goals – all in one place. Even if your bank accounts aren’t only with us.
2. Check your insulation
Sadly, most Australian homes are not built to withstand low temperatures (hello, single-pane windows). Don’t panic though, there are some simple things you can try to help your home stay warmer this winter.
- Fill any gaps that there may be around your windows and doors. Depending on the age of your home, building movement could mean more chances for the cold to seep in – and worse, warm air getting out!
- Get in your roof space and lay some extra insulation down or plug any gaps that there may be. Be careful and get assistance from somebody to avoid any accidents!
- Tape bubble wrap over windows that get the winter sun. The air pockets will be warmed by the sunlight and help keep the room warmer.
- Invest in, or make, draft excluders and lay them across the bottom of your doors to keep out any pesky cold drafts. Whether you’re looking to match your home’s aesthetic or add a touch of personality, there’s plenty of options to choose from.
3. Dress for the season
At home watching TV? Throw on an extra jumper or sweatshirt to keep cosy while you’re sitting still. Keep your feet warm with some nice woolly socks, fluffy slippers, maybe even an extra blanket (or two) for added snuggle-factor.
4. Only heat the rooms in use
Heating your bedroom when you’re in the study working from home is a waste of energy, and money! As is heating the study if you’re in the kitchen cooking.
By heating the rooms that are in use only, you can reduce your power usage. To be extra energy efficient, be sure to close doors behind you when you leave a room as it will help trap the warm air and keep them warmer for longer.
5. Conserve energy
It’s been said before, and will be said again, but unplug any appliances you’re not using! A TV on stand-by is still using power, which means you’re still being charged for it.
If there is a more energy-efficient option for an appliance, try and use it instead of your power-guzzler. For example, most conventional ovens take a long time to heat up and use a lot of power. Can you use an air-fryer instead? Or can you do some batch cooking in the oven so it’s full when in use?
Try to avoid your dryer when doing the laundry too. If you can, hang your washing to dry inside – or if the winter sun is shining, take advantage of it and hang your clothes outside instead.
Just like in summer, there’s an optimal temperature for your air-con/heating to run at in winter – but it’s not 24 degrees. Most energy providers recommend anywhere between 18-21 degrees during the cooler months, because this will be warm enough without using an excessive amount of power.
Find out about government energy bill relief that may be available to you.
Important information
Banking and Credit products issued by Police & Nurses Limited (P&N Bank).
Any advice does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Read the relevant terms and conditions, before downloading apps or acquiring any product, in considering and deciding whether it is right for you. The Target Market Determinations (TMDs) are available on our website or upon request.