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South East Queensland

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Winter energy efficiency

Before you go reaching for the heater controls during those cooler months, keep in mind these tips to help you save energy and money.

Around the home

  • Make sure your home is well insulated. Insulation retains warmth generated in your home.
  • Repair faulty door seals, hang curtains or blinds so they fit close to window frames and lay rugs securely on bare floors.
  • Keep your curtains drawn to keep in the heat.
  • Dress for the weather and layer up in winter.
  • Keep all doors closed to unused areas (unless your heating or cooling system requires doors or windows to be opened).
  • Close curtains over large glass areas (you can lose up to 16 per cent of heat transfer through glass).
  • Stop draughts getting into your home by covering any openings at the base of doors or in windows.
  • Allow the sun to come in during daylight hours to warm the home.

Air-conditioning

Using a reverse-cycle air-conditioning unit is the most energy efficient way to keep your home warm in the cooler months.

  • Keep thermostat temperatures to 18°C-20°C in winter.
  • Turn the unit on before the house gets cold.
  • Close off some areas to contain conditioned air.
  • Clean your filters regularly and remove any obstructions that may affect the running of your unit.

Heaters

  • Use timers to automatically turn units off after set period of time.
  • Minimise your use of portable electric heaters. One heater can add hundreds of dollars to one winter electricity bill.
  • Oil-filled heaters are well suited for bedrooms because they have low surface temperatures and enclosed elements.
  • Always light gas heaters in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions, turning the setting down to a comfortable level after the burners are lit.

Hot water systems

  • Use ceiling installation type bathroom heaters to aid short showering time.
  • Install water saving shower heads.
  • Connect appliances (e.g., dishwasher, washing machine) to cold water only.

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