As winter approaches, it’s time to think about how to prepare for the colder months while keeping energy bills in check. While some parts of the country, such as northern Queensland and the Northern Territory, experience only mild temperature drops, others including Victoria, Tasmania, and parts of New South Wales face chilly conditions that lead to increased energy consumption.
With rising electricity costs and the demand for power peaking in winter, it’s wise to take proactive steps to conserve energy without compromising on warmth. Here are our top energy-saving tips to help you through the cooler months.
Upgrade to energy-efficient lighting
If you haven’t already, switching to LED lightbulbs is a must. LED bulbs are widely available across Australia and use around 80% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs. Unlike old-fashioned bulbs that waste most of their energy producing heat, LEDs provide bright, efficient lighting while keeping power consumption low.
The Australian Government has been phasing out inefficient lighting for years, so making the switch now will future-proof your home and lower your power bill.
Turn off appliances!
Being mindful of how and when you use electricity can make a big difference in reducing costs. Simple habits like turning off lights when leaving a room and unplugging devices when not in use can lead to noticeable savings.
Some Australian households can also benefit from using off-peak electricity rates, which apply during certain hours of the night or early morning. If you have a time-of-use electricity plan, consider running dishwashers, washing machines, and other major appliances during these off-peak times to save money.
Improve home insulation
Heating accounts for a significant portion of winter energy bills. However, if your home isn’t properly insulated, much of that warmth could be escaping.
Sealing gaps around windows and doors with weather stripping or draught excluders can prevent cold air from creeping in and warm air from escaping. In older homes, adding insulation to ceilings and walls can greatly improve energy efficiency and make heating more effective.
If you’re renting and can’t make major modifications, simple fixes like using heavy curtains, draught stoppers, and rugs on hard floors can help retain warmth.
Consider energy-efficient heating options
Heating is the biggest energy consumer in winter, so choosing the right system is critical for both comfort and cost savings. Among all options, far infrared heating stands out as the most efficient and eco-friendly choice. Unlike traditional heaters that waste energy warming the air, infrared panels heat objects and people directly, ensuring that no warmth is lost. This targeted heating approach provides instant warmth and maximises efficiency, reducing electricity costs by up to 65% when used for zone heating. Far Infrared panels are also maintenance-free, easy to install, and require no servicing, making them a hassle-free and long-term solution.
While many Australian households use split-system air conditioners or reverse-cycle units for heating, these still rely on warming the air, leading to heat loss and fluctuating temperatures. Far Infrared heating is the most cost-effective, energy-saving, and sustainable heating solution.
Install a Smart Thermostat
A smart thermostat can help you take control of your heating and cooling expenses. A smart thermostat can be programmed to only run your heater when needed, you avoid unnecessary energy waste. Many modern thermostats allow remote control via smartphone apps, meaning you can adjust settings even when you’re not at home.
A final note
With energy prices on the rise, it’s more important than ever to find ways to reduce consumption and lower your bills. By implementing these energy-saving tips, you can stay warm this winter while keeping your electricity costs under control.
Some Australian states and utility companies offer rebates and incentives for energy efficient home improvements. Check out current promotions with your provider and you could save even ore.