In this article, we will explore a variety of ways in which you can save energy and conserve heat during winter.

Natural Resources

Take advantage of the natural sunlight coming in through the windows and open your curtains to let it heat up your room. When the sun sets, close the curtains to keep the warmth in.

Leaks

The biggest way people lose warmth and heat in their homes is through a leak, which could come from a variety of factors:

  • Poor insulation
  • Air leaks around pipes
  • Leaky and drafty doors and windows

The best way to save energy during winter is to address the issue head-on. You can install insulating drapes or curtains on leaky windows, seal air leaks with weather-stripping or caulk, or tape clear plastic film as a quick and easy DIY finish.

Vampire Electronics

Over 30% of your energy bill every month comes from vampire electronics – things that, even when turned off, stay plugged it and use energy. The best way to reduce vampire energy use is to unplug them when they aren’t in use.

If unplugging every single electronic seems to be too much, consider plugging them all into one power strip and unplug the strip each night. This does not apply to all electronics – you shouldn’t unplug your fridge every night – but rather things such as laptops, kettles, and toasters.

Only Heat the Rooms You Use – and Not Always

Instead of running the heater all day, everywhere in the house, only heat the rooms you are actually using. For example, if you are working in the study room, there is no need to heat the bedroom and lounge. That being said – you should also not be running the heater all day.

Turn on the heater in the mornings and the afternoons as it begins to get cold. By keeping it off during the middle of the day – which is the warmest – and the middle of the night when you are asleep, you will be saving energy.

Alternative Heating Methods

Aside from running the heater, there are other things you can do to get warm. This includes purchasing a rug that insulates the floor and investing in blankets and small portable heaters.

Be Smart

Many homes, especially in the sunny state of Queensland, are equipped with solar panels. If your home is not, it may be time to consider investing in them as they are worth the long-term gain.

If you have already invested in solar panels – great! It’s time to be smart about your heating options. It may end up being more expensive to run your gas heater. You may also find that putting your air conditioner on heating mode will actually save money.

If you start doing this, remember to fully switch off your gas heater and, if necessary, unplug it. Otherwise, it will continue to work even if it is not actively heating your home.

 

Questions?

If you have any questions about insulation and energy conservation, or about good quality sheet metal in Brisbane, we at Queensland Sheet Metal would be happy to help. Feel free to call us on 07 3267 1010 or contact us online.