At UNIfied Energy, we believe you shouldn’t have to choose between comfort and your bank account. Here is the breakdown of how to heat your home the smart way this winter.
1. Reverse-Cycle is King (but having solar makes it more affordable!)
The data is clear: High-efficiency reverse-cycle air conditioning, using heat pump technology, is one of the most cost-effective ways to heat a room. While portable electric heaters might seem “cheap” to buy, they are incredibly expensive to run, often costing up to three times more than a reverse-cycle system for the same amount of heat.
The UNIfied Advantage: Pair your heating with a UNIfied Solar PV System. By running your reverse-cycle heating during the day while your panels are generating power, you can effectively heat your home for a lot less.
2. Upgrade Your Hot Water
Heating isn’t just about the air temperature; hot water accounts for roughly 25% of the average household’s energy use. If you are still using an old electric storage tank, you are likely paying a “loyalty tax” to your energy retailer.
The UNIfied Solution: Transition to a High-Efficiency Heat Pump Hot Water System. These systems act like a fridge in reverse, extracting heat from the air to warm your water. They are up to 70% more efficient than traditional electric units and often qualify for significant government rebates.
3. Stop the “Great Escape”
Even the best heater will struggle if your home is “leaking” heat. Money Magazine notes that up to 35% of heat is lost through the ceiling and 15-25% through gaps around doors and windows.
UNIfied Tip: Before the frost hits, check your seals. Simple “door snakes” and heavy curtains can make a massive difference. Additionally, ensure your home is equipped with Energy-Efficient LED Lighting. While LEDs are famous for saving power, they also stay cool, reducing the risk of heat-leaking gaps often found around old, poorly sealed halogen downlights.
4. Small Habits, Big Savings
The “Golden Rule” of winter heating is the 18-20°C range. Every degree you turn the thermostat up over 20°C can add 10% to your heating costs.
Zoned Heating: Only heat the rooms you are using. If you have a ducted system, use the zones to keep bedrooms cool during the day and living areas warm.
5. Future-Proof with Battery Storage
The cheapest way to heat your home at night? Use the energy you collected during the day.
The UNIfied Solution: A Solar Battery allows you to store excess solar energy generated during the sunny winter hours and discharge it in the evening when the family is home and the heating demands are highest. This “load shifting” is the ultimate way to achieve energy independence.
Is your home winter-ready?
Don’t wait for a “bill shock” in July. UNIfied Energy offers comprehensive energy assessments to find the best solar, split heating/cooling systems, and hot water heat pumps for your specific needs.
Why Choose UNIfied?
At UNIfied Energy, we’re committed to making your electrification journey seamless. We help Australian households and businesses:
- Reduce energy bills
- Lower carbon emissions
- Confidently invest in clean energy living
Contact UNIfied Energy today or call 1300 817 847 to achieve greater savings in these precarious times and start your journey of clean energy living.
