get through winter in comfort

An effective and economical heating system is more than just a good heater, it is a "heating package" which should always include:

• insulation in ceilings, walls and floors where possible;
• sealing off draughts;
• effective window coverings;
• zoning of living and sleeping areas;
• appropriate and efficient heater(s); and
• YOU using your heating package wisely and efficiently.

As the most ideal heating system will vary from house to house, we recommend you have a good read of the Department of Energy, Utilities and Sustainability (DEUS) brochure "Choosing a heating system".

To see the most energy efficient ways to contain heat in your home visit our building and renovations section.

Some simple ways to be energy efficient in the winter months include;

• Minimise the area to be heated by closing doors to unheated areas or installing curtains across open archways.
• Use the right sized heater for the area you wish to heat - there's no need to heat a small room with a large heater and vice versa.
• Use the thermostat correctly - for every degree you increase the setting, your bill may increase by up to 15%.
• Don't leave your heater running on low overnight or while you are out during the day.
• Install a timer or programmable thermostat to turn your heater on and off automatically.
• Turn off the pilot light (if fitted) over summer.
• Maintain your heater - keep reflectors shiny and free of dust, and clean air-filters regularly.
• Close windows and doors in heated areas while the heater is on.
• Close drapes or blinds when you are heating, especially at night.
• Open up curtains to north-facing windows on sunny winter days to let in the free, natural solar energy to warm your home.
• Ceiling fans, heat shifters or personal fans set about 2.1m above the floor are useful ways to redistribute heat that has collected at the top of ceilings.
• Wearing warmer clothing is free, easy and will let you turn down your heater just those few degrees more.

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