As Canberra’s infamous winter weather approaches and we find ourselves spending more time at home, we often end up using more energy too. We caught up with Ginninderry’s Sustainability Manager, Jessica Stewart, for some advice on easy ways to keep cosy without spiking your energy bill (or layering on loads of fuzzy jumpers).

Understanding your energy use

Before we get into the tips, it’s worth getting a better understanding of where the average Australian home uses the most energy.

Here’s a snapshot:

• Heating and cooling: 40%
• Appliances and equipment, including refrigeration and cooking: 33%
• Water heating: 21%
• Lighting: 6%

Ways to save

Now that you know the average Australian home uses about 40% of their energy on heating and cooling, you can put a plan in place to save this winter. Even small changes to the way you heat your home can lead to some helpful savings.

Take advantage of the sun

• Dry your clothes indoors in the sun rather than using your dryer.
• Open up your curtains and blinds during the day to let in the winter sun (don’t forget to close them once the sun is down).

Close up those gaps and cracks

• Draught proofing will give you your best bang for buck!
• If you can see the outside from the inside you’re losing heat (and money!)

Zone your home

• Heat only the areas of the house that you need.

Check your temperature

• Set your temperature to between 18^oC and 20^oC – every degree you lower your thermostat can save you up to 10% on your energy bill.
• Turn your heaters off when you go out.

Wrap it up

• Put on a jumper before turning up your heater
• Heat yourself first before heating your home