How can I heat my home using less energy?

In Australia heating costs for households are seasonal. Below are some basic tips for improving your energy efficiency when it comes to heating:

Ensure that your home is well insulated and check the quality of the insulation. Insulation is the best investment for improving your heating whilst minimizing your energy usage.

Minimize heat loss by installing properly fitted door seals, hang curtains or blinds so they fit close to window frames and have pelmets installed over window frames. Lay rugs on any bare concrete, tiles or wooden floors.

Maximize heat zoning by keeping all doors closed to unused areas (unless your heating system requires doors or windows to be kept open).

Keep curtains closed over large glass areas, as significant amounts of heat can be transferred through exposed glass.

Minimize over heating by keeping the thermostat heating temperature moderate, typical manufacturers recommended settings for winter at 20°C.

Make sure all appliances are regularly maintained to remove dust and ensure adequate air flow. Check your manufacturer’s instruction booklet for directions.

For storage hot water systems; set your thermostat to a low setting, this will reduce the energy required by your system when it is reheating your stored water.

Consider heating your home with the sun's help by installing solar panels. Even though the initial cost to install solar panels seems to be quiet pricy, the energy from solar panels or using solar heat to supplement your normal heating source is cost effective in the long term.

If there is plenty of wood available in your backyard then maximize your home heating by turning to a wood burning stove.

Don’t forget to service your furnace before you use it in the winter. Many gas and oil companies provide this in your service contract or for a small additional fee and it could amount to savings of up to $400, also Inspect your furnace when the weather starts to get colder and try to keep the parts clean. Replace air filters when necessary. Clean filters can save up to $60 a year on heating costs.

When you're away from home for an extended time, turn off the heat and the hot water heater. Don't do this for short term absences as it can take more energy to heat up the cold water.

If you've installed awnings to block the sun in the summer, make sure you take them off before the cold weather hits. You want the energy provided by sun-exposed windows during winter months - take full advantage of those warming rays on your windows.

This advice is proudly brought to you by Renewablelogic – the logical choice for your future energy savings!

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