1. Improve your insulation
Insulation is one of the most effective ways to keep a home warm. It slows the loss of heat, so the warmth you create stays inside. Focus on these areas:
- Ceiling and roof space, where most heat escapes
- External walls, which can often be retrofitted in existing homes
- Under-floor areas, especially in older Queenslanders on stumps
2. Seal draughts and gaps
Gaps around doors, windows and other openings let cold air in and warm air out. Sealing them is simple and inexpensive.
- Weather strips around doors and window frames
- Sealant for cracks around frames and fittings
- Draught stoppers along the bottom of external doors
3. Use heavy curtains and rugs
Heavy, lined curtains help trap heat indoors. Open them during the day to let the winter sun warm your rooms, then close them in the late afternoon to hold that warmth in.
Hard floors can make a room feel colder than it is. Rugs add a layer of insulation and a warmer surface underfoot.
4. Get the most from your heating
Your heating system does the heavy lifting in winter, so help it work efficiently:
- Have it serviced before winter, including a filter clean and a general check
- Use timers or a smart controller to warm the house before you wake or get home
- Heat only the rooms you are using, with zoning on ducted systems or by room on split systems
5. Layer up
It sounds obvious, but warm clothing and a blanket on the couch mean you can set the heating a degree or two lower and still feel comfortable. Every degree makes a difference to your running costs.
6. Consider an efficient heating system
If your current heating is old or inefficient, a reverse cycle air conditioner is one of the most practical options for a Brisbane home. The same system cools in summer and heats in winter.
- Split systems heat individual rooms quickly and precisely
- Ducted systems deliver even warmth through the whole home, with zones to heat only the areas you use
7. Talk to Airspect about heating your home
Airspect has been installing air conditioning in Brisbane homes since 2007. Our team can look at your home and recommend a split or ducted reverse cycle system that suits the way you live, with a clear quote before any work starts.