<p class="p1"><span class="s1">Winter-proofing your home can ensure comfort, lower your environmental impact, and save you money. Here are some cost-effective modifications that deliver great value.</span></p> <p class="p2"> </p> <p class="p3"><span class="s1"><strong>1. Heat System Maintenance</strong></span></p> <p class="p4"><span class="s1">Having your heating system serviced before winter is a smart move. This proactive step reduces the risk of mid-winter breakdowns and ensures your system runs more efficiently.</span></p> <p class="p5"> </p> <p class="p4"><span class="s1"><strong>2. Program Your Thermostat</strong></span></p> <p class="p4"><span class="s1">Most new heating systems, including air conditioners, come with smart thermostats that let you program your heating schedule. Utilising this feature is an easy way to save money.</span></p> <p class="p5"> </p> <p class="p4"><span class="s1"><strong>3. Insulation</strong></span></p> <p class="p4"><span class="s1">According to Sustainability Victoria, a fully insulated home can cut heating and cooling costs by around 40-50% compared to a non-insulated home.</span></p> <p class="p4"><span class="s1">Check the quality of your ceiling insulation, and if it’s old or compressed, consider replacing it.</span></p> <p class="p6"> </p> <p class="p4"><span class="s1"><strong>4. Seal Draughts</strong></span></p> <p class="p4"><span class="s1">Check doors, windows and any other potential gaps that could cause air leaks. </span></p> <p class="p5"> </p> <p class="p4"><span class="s1"><strong>5 Window Smarts</strong></span></p> <p class="p4"><span class="s1">According to Your Home, the Australian Government’s guide to environmentally sustainable homes, up to 40% of a home’s heating energy can be lost, and up to 87% of its heat can be gained through the windows. Therefore, it's crucial to use windows to your advantage.</span></p> <p class="p4"><span class="s1">Ensure you have quality window coverings and a box pelmet to help trap heat in at night.</span></p> <p class="p5"> </p> <p class="p4"><span class="s1"><strong>6. Style For Comfort and Warmth</strong></span></p> <p class="p4"><span class="s1">If your home has hardwood or tiled floors, adding rugs can create a cozy ambiance while also serving a functional purpose by trapping heat.</span></p> <p class="p5"> </p> <p class="p4"><span class="s1"><strong>7. Consider Going Solar</strong></span></p> <p class="p4"><span class="s1">Installing a solar power system will not only lower your energy bills but also has the potential to earn you money.</span></p> <p class="p5"> </p> <p class="p4"><span class="s1"><strong>8. Shop Around For A Better Energy Deal </strong></span></p> <p class="p4"><span class="s1">You want to feel confident in your energy deal because, ultimately, it’s better to keep money in your pocket if you can. </span></p>