As the mercury plummets and a polar blast sweeps across southeastern Australia, many of us are bracing for those bone-chilling mornings and frosty nights.
But before you reach for the thermostat and brace yourself for a sky-high power bill, we’ve got some clever tricks up our sleeves to help you stay warm, without burning a hole in your wallet!
Heating your home with a reverse-cycle aircon can cost Australian households up to a whopping $1,519.60 a year, according to new research from iSelect. But don’t worry—there are plenty of ways to keep cosy and cut costs at the same time.
We’ve gathered expert advice from Goran Surbevski, comfort advisor at Alliance Climate Control, and added a few of our tried-and-true tips to help you beat the chill this winter.
1. Master the aircon’ winter mode’ trick
Did you know your aircon isn’t just for summer? If you’ve got a reverse-cycle unit, you’re sitting on a goldmine of winter warmth. Switch your aircon to heating mode and set the temperature between 18–20°C.
This sweet spot keeps you comfortable and your energy bills in check—every degree above 20°C can add around 10 per cent to your running costs!
Not sure what temperature is best for your region? Here’s a handy guide:
- Central Australia: 17°C
- Northern Queensland, Northern Western Australia (WA), Northern Territory: 18°C
- Southwestern WA, South Australia: 19–20°C
- Southeastern New South Wales, Northeastern Victoria (VIC), Australian Capital Territory: 20°C
- Southern VIC, Tasmania: 21°C
Remember, it’s all about balance—if you’re still chilly, put on a jumper or snuggle under a blanket before cranking up the heat.
2. Insulate your home the easy way (and save big!)
Many Australian homes weren’t built with winter in mind, so it’s no wonder we lose up to 25 per cent of our heat through poor insulation.
But you don’t need a complete renovation to make a difference! Try these simple, budget-friendly fixes:
- Hang thicker curtains to trap warmth.
- Lay down rugs on bare floors to stop heat escaping.
- Block draughty door gaps with rolled towels or a DIY draught stopper.
- Seal up cracks around windows with weatherproof tape or caulking.
These quick tweaks can make your home feel instantly cosier—and you’ll notice the difference on your next power bill.
3. Use ‘dry mode’ to banish damp and boost warmth
Humidity isn’t just a summer problem. In winter, damp air can make your home feel colder than it is. If you live in a coastal area or notice condensation on your windows, try running your aircon in ‘Dry Mode’.
This setting removes excess moisture, making your space feel warmer and helping your heater work more efficiently. It also helps prevent mould, a real health hazard during the colder months.
4. Flip your ceiling fan to push warm air down
Here’s a trick most people don’t know: your ceiling fan can help keep you warm! Set it to spin clockwise (reverse mode) on a low speed.
This gently pushes the warm air that rises to the ceiling back into the room, making your space feel warmer without touching the thermostat. It’s a simple switch that can save money and make a big difference in comfort.
5. Keep your aircon in top shape
Just like your car, your aircon needs regular care to run efficiently. Dirty filters and clogged ducts make your unit work harder (and cost more to run), but they can also spread dust, allergens, and bacteria—no thanks!
Here’s what to do:
- Clean or replace filters every few months.
- Check and clean ducts to keep air flowing freely.
- Book a professional service at least once a year to keep everything running smoothly.
How do you keep warm during icy Australian winters? Have you tried any of these hacks, or do you have your secret weapon against the cold? Share your tips and stories in the comments below—we’d love to hear from you!
Also read: What’s the most cost-effective way to heat your home this winter? Here are some simple tips
