For Australian homeowners, winter heating costs represent a significant expense. In fact, according to estimates, heating costs account for about 40 percent of an entire homeowners yearly energy bill in Australia.
In other words, improving your home’s efficiency can lead to significant cost savings. How? Tasks like sealing windows, improving insulation, or generating heat with an alternative heat source – like a European fireplace – can all help homeowners reduce their reliance on traditional electricity-fired heating sources.
Effective Ways to Reduce Your Home’s Heating Footprint
From installing a wood fireplace to sealing windows, doors and attics, homeowners can realise savings quickly with these low-cost investments.Install a Fireplace
A fireplace serves as a supplementary heat source in larger homes. And it’s one of the fastest ways to reduce your heating bill. Here’s why: A fireplace enables you to use zone heating. In other words, the fireplace will be sufficient to heat specific areas of your home, reducing your overall reliance on a traditional heating system. But not all fireplaces are created equal. European fireplaces, for instance, are designed for high efficiency. They require less fuel to create heat, they burn fuel more efficiently, and they use heat sinks to provide radiant heat. A high-efficiency fireplace will cut costs further compared to a conventional wood-fired stove.Seal and Weatherproof Windows and Doors
Windows and doors can be the source of draughts, which leak valuable heat from your home. A few low-cost solutions are available. First, inspect the window’s seals; resealing windows with caulking can help to prevent heat loss. Additionally, installing heavy curtains can help to limit heat loss, and plastic films can also help to add a bit more insulation.