Power saving tips for winter

Reduce your 'black balloons' by following these tips

During winter there are many simple things you can do to keep your home warm, while saving power and money.

• Choose energy efficient heating An efficient natural gas heater* is usually the most efficient heating choice. If you don't have gas, the next best option is a reverse cycle heater – but ensure that the one you choose is energy efficient. Both gas and reverse cycle heaters have energy rating labels to help you choose the most efficient model.
  Save: By choosing an energy efficient heating system you can reduce your heating power use by up to 40 per cent.
• Use extra layers Wear warmer clothing and use an extra blanket on the bed, so you don't need to have your heater turned up so high. Decrease your temperature setting by just one degree and reduce your heating bill by up to 15 per cent.
  Save: Around $145 and 550 kg of carbon pollution (or 11,000 black balloons) each year.
• Block off heat loss Shut windows and doors and close curtains when your heater is on, especially at night, as a window can lose 10 times as much heat as the same area of insulated wall.
  Save: Around $45 and 2000 kg of carbon pollution (or 4000 black balloons) each year.
• Zone your home Use doors to divide spaces into smaller areas – it takes less power to heat a specific area rather than the entire house!
  Save: Around $65 and 3000 kg of carbon pollution (or 6000 black balloons) each year.
• Stop the draught Draught-proof your home by sealing gaps and using draught excluders on your doors. This makes your home more comfortable and can save you up to 25 per cent on your power bill.
  Save: Around $15 and 1000 kg of carbon pollution (or 2000 black balloons) each year.

Further information

• Browse winter heating tips.