For many people, it’s still too hot out to be giving winter much thought. However, some homeowners may already be looking for ways to best prepare their homes for cooler months. One of the top aspects to consider is finding ways to reduce high heating bills.
A simple way to instantly warm space is to add the quality outdoor blinds Melbourne home and business owners are installing on everything from patios to pool areas. This post takes a quick look at a few of the top ways to keep your home warm this winter.
Keep the Heat In
As much as the average person feels overwhelmed by the heat and humidity of summer, very few of us actually look forward to the cooler winter months. This is because the cold brings a need for heaters and heated air con units which in turn, results in higher utility bills. Here are a few suggestions from our experts about how you can keep your bill affordable this winter.
1. Invest in Outdoor Blinds
Every homeowner strives to find long-term bill reduction solutions rather than something that only works for one season. Adding outdoor blinds to the outside of your home, or on your patio or verandah area is an effective long-term solution.
Installing outdoor blinds against windows or patio spaces prevents heat loss, which reduces the need for artificial heating. Opening your blinds during the day to capture heat and closing them in the early evening will go a long way toward trapping heat in the space.
Having outdoor blinds on an open space such as a verandah or outdoor BBQ area allows you to use the space even when it’s cold outside. Some of the popular options to consider include the following:
- Ziptrak blinds
- Café zipper blinds
- Café crank blinds
- Custom outdoor blinds
- Motorised outdoor blinds
Modern outdoor blinds can also be automated for convenience. Features such as weather sensors can also be added to help you choose when you want your blinds open or closed. Blinds can be customised to incorporate function and specific aesthetics. Speak to your local blinds installer for a range of options suited to your window size as well as heat and shading requirements.
2. Update Your Home’s Insulation
Another quick and easy way to increase the heat in your home and lower overall heating costs is by ensuring that the space is properly insulated. This is especially important if you’re living in an older house.
Older homes may have damaged or missing insulation which will allow cold air to blow in. It’s also a good idea to check window and door frames, as well as any air vents for gaps. Sealing these with sealant or caulk and adding outdoor blinds will ensure that very little air gets into your home.
3. Bring in the Natural Sunlight
Natural sunlight is a very cost-effective way to add warmth to your home. Do this by opening your blinds or curtains on warm, sunny days. Closing the blinds and curtains just before sunset traps residual sun in the home. During the summer months, you can lower the blinds to keep the hot sun out. Either way, you’ll be less likely to need your heater or fan as often.
4. Have all Heating Equipment Serviced
Some parts of Australia can get quite cold which means you may still need your electric heaters or air con units. Maximise their efficiency by keeping these units serviced and clean. Dirty filters can impact airflow which will force your machine to work harder.
Older units should be upgraded to modern units that have been designed with energy efficiency in mind. Speak to your aircon installer about the most energy-efficient options for your space size.
5. Adopt Energy-Efficient Habits
With so many gadgets and machines around promising to keep you warm in the simplest ways, it’s very easy to fall into the trap of stocking up on energy-guzzling devices. Avoid this by switching the focus in your home to creating energy-efficient habits.
Our experts recommend the following tips to try:
- Opt for warmer clothing or extra blankets rather than always turning the thermostat up
- Close doors of unused rooms to prevent heat from being drawn into empty spaces
- Use your blinds to regulate the sunlight in your home
- Keep outdoor blinds closed on cold days to keep cooler air from getting in
- Invest in solar panels to create a renewable energy supply
- Use skylights to enhance the natural sunlight in your home
- Replace dated equipment and appliances that use excessive energy
Takeaways
Keeping your home warm in the winter isn’t only about buying another gadget that will add to your home’s energy drain. Utilising simple solutions such as adding outdoor (or indoor) blinds, letting more sunlight in, and updating your insulation are all excellent ways to require your electric or gas heaters and air con units. Be proactive by getting your home winter warm before the cold shows up!
