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Maintaining a comfortable temperature in your home should be simple, but for many families, it’s a source of stress – especially when it comes to the financial side of things. In winter, things get even more tricky, as many Aussie homes aren’t generally built with warmth in mind.
Thankfully, there are many things that families can do to help keep costs down as we gradually head into the colder months, many of which are completely free. So whether you’re in the middle of planning your yearly expenses, or simply want to save a little bit of money as we head from summer to autumn, here are some top tips for heating your home more effectively and efficiently.
Check your windows
Windows are one of the most important elements to consider when trying to keep your home warm, especially if you only have single glazing. Keep curtains wide open during the day to allow as much sun as possible to come through. At night, keep them firmly shut to provide an extra layer of insulation. And while it might sound obvious; keep doors and windows shut whenever possible.
Thermal curtains are another option, providing you with even more protection from the elements. Thermal curtains are made from several layers of fabric and have a special acrylic coating or a layer of acrylic foam in the centre to provide even more insulation.
Control your airflow
In order to keep drafts out, it’s worth getting seals fitted or using door snakes at the bottom of your door to keep the heat in. If you’re feeling crafty, you could even make your own with some scrap fabric stuffed with some fabric scraps, rice or dried beans.
If you do have a heater in your home, make sure to keep your furniture well away from it, otherwise, the furniture will simply absorb all the heat and not allow it to circulate to the rest of the room.
Invest in Modern Heating Systems
Over the last decade, heating systems have improved significantly in both effectiveness and efficiency. Having an older heating unit won’t just affect your energy bills, it’s also incredibly costly and difficult to repair.
Although replacing your old heater may set you back a bit in the short term, making the switch sooner rather than later will have you reaping the benefits for the next winters to come. What’s more, companies like Alliance Climate Control also offer significantly discounted rates if you trade in your older heating system for a new one, no matter the condition. These kinds of winter promotions can be a sustainable way to shave off some of the upfront costs.
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One area you may not have even considered is your home’s roof and ceilings. An under-insulated home in winter can lose up to 35% internal warmth through the ceilings, which can add up to an expensive ‘heat leak’ over time.
While adding extra ceiling insulation might result in some upfront costs, the long-term savings make it completely worth spending the cash. Insulation will keep your house warm in winter, but it’ll also keep your home cool in summer, so it’s worth the investment.
Keep your hot water in check
Hot water is another critical element to keep your home warm and cosy during those colder months. It’s easy to forget that your hot water system needs regular servicing, and isn’t a ‘set it and forget it’ situation.
For electric hot water tanks, there’s something called a ‘sacrificial anode’, which rusts first, protecting your tank. However, when there’s no sacrificial metal left, your water heater tank can rust out, eventually causing it to burst.
Anode rods generally can last about three to five years, but it really depends on the quality of your water and how much water travels through your water heater. Regular servicing of your hot water tank will make it last longer and will be significantly cheaper than a replacement hot water tank.
For families with children, it’s especially vital to keep your house warm in winter and cool in summer. By following the above tips, you’ll be well on your way to maintaining the perfect temperature year-round, without breaking the bank.
Zak Saboune, founder, Service Today:
Early in his career, Zak Saboune recognised that being a skilled tradesperson wasn’t enough in today’s competitive world. Zak’s strong belief in reliable on-time performance and predictable, honest prices led him to found Service Today, a professional home services company offering services including emergency plumbing, electrical, heating and cooling. https://www.servicetoday.com.au/
Backed by his experience as a licensed plumber, Zak’s passion for great customer service and flair for marketing and technology has seen Service Today expand into one of Australia’s leading emergency home service businesses, with over 180 employees in Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide.
