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With Australia’s current gas crisis, we’re all bracing ourselves for a predicted rise in electricity and gas bill prices, which has left us keen to find ways to cut down our energy use in the meantime.
We can remember to turn off the lights when we leave home, limit use of our dryers (if we have them) and even switch to a more affordable electricity plan, but one other important energy bill area to be conscious of is heating.
Having a heater on for even just a few hours a day can significantly contribute to your electricity bill. But because being cold in simply not an option, how can we get through the winter staying warm without using electricity?
We share five — potentially obvious, but still each worth outlining — ways here.
Seal All Cracks
Firstly, whether you’re using a heater or not, you’ll want to think about keeping the warmth in and the cold out. So, check around your home that all your cracks and crevices are sealed, as they can bring the temperature down a lot more than you’d think.
While you can stuff a towel or some old sheets underneath doors that let in a draft, another option is to invest in a Weatherproofing Door Seal Strip, $13.99, to firmly seal the space.
Buy Some Rugs
Not only can a rug help to make a room feel more ‘done’, but it can also help to warm it — even if the room is already carpeted. Essentially, it’s a layer of insulation that keeps the warmth in, and the cold out. You might also consider using a rug as a wall hanging, as that’ll also help to insulate.
Keep Blinds Open in the Day and Shut at Night
One way to bring in warmth without using a heater is to open your blinds or curtains in the day to let in the sunlight. The key is to remember to close them once the sun goes down, so you keep all the warmth from the day inside.
Choose an Energy-Efficient Heater
If you are using a heater, be sure the one you’re using is energy-efficient. Some cheaper heaters can suck up more electricity than a pricier one would, landing you a higher electricity bill and having to pay more money in the long run.
When looking at buying a new heater, consider its energy rating (the stars will show how energy efficient it is), size (one that’s just right for the space) and controls (some heaters can automatically measure the temperature of the room and switch off heating if necessary).
This Bitzong Energy Efficient Portable Office & Home Heater, $89.95, is on sale now.
Wear Layers
Finally, if you aren’t doing so already, bundle up (we did tell you some of these would be obvious). Invest in full-length PJs, a fluffy bathrobe and warm slippers. Not only will you feel warm inside your home, but bundling up and looking after yourself will also make you feel like you’ve indulged in some self-care. It’s a win-win, really.
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