Ways to reduce your heating and cooling energy use.
Your energy costs for heating and cooling your house depend on what type of system you have, how you use it, and your local climate.
Here are some ways to take the heat off your bill
- Make sure your home is well insulated. Roof insulation can save you up to 45% on your heating and cooling costs. External wall insulation and even installing high insulating windows will further increase energy savings.
- Draught from poorly sealed doors and windows can account for up to 25% of heat loss. Apply draught stripping to poorly fitted windows and doors to minimize this.
- Dress for the weather. ‘Layer up’ in winter and wear cool, natural, breathable fibres in summer
- Keep all doors closed to unused areas (unless your heating or cooling system requires doors or windows to be opened)
- Set your thermostat cooler in winter and warmer in summer. Every additional degree adds 5 – 10% to your energy costs.
- Make sure all air conditioners and heaters are regularly maintained to remove dust and ensure adequate air flow. Check your instruction booklet for directions.
- Balance out greenhouse gas emissions generated by your heating and cooling by choosing government accredited Origin Green Power and Origin Green Gas.
To reduce energy use for heating
- Minimize your use of portable electric heaters. They consume 2.4kW per heater which potentially will add hundreds of dollars to your 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
- Set rules so heaters are not used as much – e.g. ‘heater to be used only on days minimum temperatures are 55°F or lower’ – and you can save between 10 and 15 % of your energy use
To reduce energy use for cooling
- Fans use minimal energy, operate at a fraction of the running cost of air conditioners and can reduce the number of days you use air conditioning
- Make sure the outdoor section of your air conditioning unit is not installed facing the sun (north or west), unless the area will be constantly shaded to allow adequate cooling of the unit.
