Stay warm and save electricity
BRACE yourselves - electricity bills are expected to get a whole lot larger than they already are, the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal has predicted.
IPART has flagged that $300 on average will be added to household power bills as of July 1, with the inception of the Carbon Tax.
Ergon Energy southern general manager Paul Jordon said while keeping warm in winter could be expensive, there were ways for customers to save on energy costs without sacrificing comfort.
"People are sometimes surprised at the jump in their energy bills over the winter months," Mr Jordon said.
"But by using their energy sense and following simple tips such as closing curtains, checking for draughts, blocking gaps or cracks to stop heat loss and dressing to keep warm, they can make a huge difference."
Mr Jordon said installing the right type of insulation, especially in the ceiling, and weather stripping gaps on windows and doors could cut heating costs by up to 45%.
He recommended people concentrated heating to a few frequently used rooms, such as living rooms or kitchens, and spend time in those comfort spaces.
On sunny days, he said customers could save by turning off the heater, opening the curtains and letting the sun in.
"Covering large glass windows with curtains, can cut heat loss through windows by up to 70% ," Mr Jordon said.
In a nutshell
Close curtains to retain heat.
Check for draughts.
Block gaps or cracks.
Whip the trackies and hoodies out and rug up.
Ensure you have good insulation.
Refrain from using heaters where possible, but choose your reverse-cycle air-conditioner over a heater to save dollars.
Turn the lights off when you are not using that room.
Hang your washing out instead of using the dryer.
Switch appliances off at the wall.
Wash clothes in cold water rather than hot where possible.
Lower heat settings - for every degree in the 15 to 21 degree range that you lower the setting on your heater, you save about 5% on heating costs.
