Winter in Australia can bring chilly weather, with parts of the country experiencing near-freezing temperatures. Turning up the heaters to stay warm can push up the power bills, and with the high cost of living that can really stretch the budget. Even though we're halfway through the season, there are still a few things you can do to improve your home's comfort and reduce your energy bills. Here are five ways to winter-proof your home and save on energy costs.

Heat system maintenance

Regular maintenance of your home heating system helps prevent unexpected faults during the coldest months and ensures your system operates efficiently. Schedule a maintenance check-up with an authorised heating system agent once a year to check for any potential issues and optimise performance. Clean the filters at every change of season to maintain airflow as dirty filters can cause your system to work harder and use more energy.

Program your thermostat

Heating and cooling is the biggest source of energy use in the home, accounting for 20 – 50% of all energy used in Australian homes. To save on energy use, schedule your heating to turn on and off when you need it most and significantly reduce running costs. Set your thermostat between 18°C and 20°C in winter and between 25°C and 27°C in summer, as these are the optimal temperatures for both efficiency and comfort. Remember, every extra degree increases your heating and cooling energy use between 5% and 10%.

Install insulation

A fully insulated home can reduce heating and cooling costs by around 40 to 50%, create a more comfortable home year round, virtually eliminate condensation on walls and ceilings and pays for itself in around five to six years! Check the quality of insulation in your ceiling and consider replacing it if it’s old or compressed. For older homes without wall insulation, there are companies that can retrofit insulation, which will save you money in the long run.

Seal drafts and cracks

Up to 25% of winter heat loss is due to air leakage and drafts. Use weather stripping, door snakes, or caulking to plug any leaks and improve your home’s energy efficiency.

Check doors, windows, and other gaps around pipes or vents where air could be escaping. Install carpet or rugs over older floorboards, and seal gaps between skirting and flooring using flexible caulking material.

Window smarts

According to Your Home, the Australian Government’s Guide to Environmentally Sustainable Homes, up to 40% of a home’s heating energy can be lost, and up to 87% of its heat gained through the windows. Use your windows to your advantage by fitting quality window coverings and a box pelmet to trap heat at night. Open curtains and blinds during the day to let the warmth from the winter sun heat your home.

Winter-proofing for comfort and efficiency

Winter-proofing your home doesn't only enhance comfort in the colder months; it also helps save on energy bills. From heating system maintenance to sealing gaps and improving insulation, these simple steps can make a significant difference.

If you’re ready to take your home efficiency to the next level, contact a mortgage broker at Mortgage Express to discuss how refinancing your mortgage could provide the funds you need for these essential home improvement projects.

Accessing your home equity can help finance renovations, retrofit double glazing on windows, or install ceiling insulation. These upgrades not only improve your home's comfort but also maximize your energy savings.

Get in touch with Mortgage Express today and start your journey toward a more comfortable, energy-efficient home.

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