Why winter heating costs are rising.

With today’s cost-of-living pressures, winter can be a challenging time financially for households, especially with soaring electricity and gas bills.

At FinancePath, we understand the importance of keeping your home comfortable without breaking the bank.

Here are seven practical and budget-friendly ways to manage your energy costs this winter.

1. Be smart about heating

Choose your heating wisely. According to Choice, reverse-cycle air conditioning is the most cost-effective way to heat your home. Portable electric heaters may be cheap to buy, but they’re expensive to run and can drive up your power bills. Heat only the rooms you’re using, close doors to unused spaces, and aim for a comfortable temperature between 18-20°C. Every extra degree can add up to 10% more energy usage. Use programmable settings to warm your home when needed and turn off heating when you're not home or overnight.

2. Seal gaps and cracks

To heat a room efficiently, seal any gaps or cracks that could create drafts. Up to 40% of heating can be lost through windows. Ensure windows are closed properly and use blinds or curtains to retain heat. Consider double glazing if your budget allows. Use draught stoppers on doors and lay down thick rugs on hard floors for added insulation.

3. Warm yourself up in cost-effective ways

Rug up instead of turning up the heat. Use warm materials like flannel for bedding and wool clothing. A hot water bottle or heated throw can be a cost-effective way to stay warm. Keep showers short, as heating water can account for over 20% of household energy use.

4. Service your heating systems

Regular maintenance of your heating system ensures it runs efficiently. Clean filters and clear vents of dust. Gas heaters should be serviced by a professional. A well-maintained system uses less energy and saves money in the long run.

5. Be mindful of insulation and appliances

Check your home’s insulation, poor insulation leads to heat loss. A fully insulated home can reduce heating and cooling costs by up to 50%. Upgrade to energy-efficient appliances and switch off unused devices at the power point to avoid standby energy consumption.

6. Switch ceiling fans to reverse

Set ceiling fans to reverse mode (anti-clockwise) to push warm air down from the ceiling and circulate it throughout the room.

7. Make the most of the sun

Let natural sunlight in during the day to warm your home. If your budget allows, solar panels can be a worthwhile long-term investment to reduce energy costs.

Looking to improve your home’s energy efficiency?

With the right planning, your winter heating doesn’t have to break the bank. If you’re considering a renovation to improve energy efficiency or want to purchase a newer, more efficient home, FinancePath can help you explore your finance options.

Book your free consultation today and take the first step toward a warmer, more energy-smart home!