Slow-roasted and home-cooked meals, warming up next to the heater, taking a long warm bath or hot shower... is there any other way to spend your winter days? As much as we all find these winter pleasures hard to resist, they have a tendency to increase the electricity bill. So here are some ways to ensure you enjoy your winter while maintaining a manageable electricity bill.
Find the power culprits
Here are some of the appliances that drain power the most:
- kettle
- washing machine
- air conditioner
- microwave oven
- heater
- toaster
- iron
- coffee machine
- electric blanket
- refrigerator
Change your habits
Now that you know what’s to blame, here’s how to better manage your electricity use:
- Switch off idle appliances. Appliances kept on at the power point consume about 50% of the power they utilise when in use.
- Dress warmly and have hot drinks. This way, you can delay switching on the heater.
- Turn off the lights in all the unoccupied rooms.
- Switch from bath to shower and time yourself – showering uses less water and electricity.
Stay warm the smart way
- Exercise and get your blood pumping. It’ll warm you up.
- Block the cold draught by sealing off gaps around windows and doors.
- Open your curtains during the day and let in as much sun as you can to warm up the rooms.
Which is the best heater for winter?
Electric heater
Pros
- They don’t depend on burning anything, so there is no risk of inhaling carbon dioxide.
- Small heaters are affordable.
Cons
- Some electric heaters don’t produce enough heat.
- They may consume large amounts of electricity
- Some heaters pose a fire hazard.
Wood-burning heat
Pros
- Wood is a far more affordable resource.
- Fire is not affected by power cuts.
- Closed fireplaces are highly efficient.
Cons
- Installing a fireplace, if you don’t already have one, can be expensive.
- Open fireplaces are not as efficient and also pose a fire risk if anything flammable is placed too close.
Gas heaters
Pros
- Portable gas heaters are affordable.
- Gas heaters warm up a room faster because they create instant heat.
- They aren’t dependent on electricity.
Cons
- The price of gas is constantly changing, so it can become costly.
- If misused, it can pose a fire hazard.
- Requires regular ventilation because of the release of carbon dioxide.
Making more conscious financial choices like these will save you a great deal of money. Adjust the way you keep warm and enjoy a cosy, worry-free winter.