Learn How to Beat the Winter Chill
Winter is just around the corner but for those in Victoria, unsurprisingly, winter came a bit early. As the seasons change and temperatures drop, it is essential to have a cosy and comfortable home. With so many heating options available, determining the right solution for your unique needs can be an overwhelming process. Not only that, the rising costs can also further complicate the process.
In this article, we will explore various heating systems, energy-efficient options, considerations for different climate zones, cost-effective solutions, and tips for maximising warmth while minimising energy consumption. Whether you’re a homeowner, renter, or simply looking to make your home more inviting during the colder months, this guide will provide you with the knowledge and insights to make informed decisions and create a warm and inviting environment in your Australian home.
Types of Heating Systems
There are various types of heating systems available in the market. One important thing to note when choosing the right heating for your home is understanding the difference between short-term and long-term costs. Continue reading to learn about the different heating systems you can choose from.
1. Ducted reverse cycle
Ducted reverse cycle is excellent at cooling your home in the summer and heating your home in the winter. Thus, making it a great choice for all-year round. A ducted reverse cycle system is a type of heating and cooling system that utilises a central unit to provide both heating and cooling throughout a building. The system consists of a condenser unit located outside the building, which extracts heat from the outdoor air during winter and transfers it indoors.
In summer, the process is reversed, and the system extracts heat from indoor air and releases it outdoors. The conditioned air is distributed through a network of ducts that deliver it to various rooms or zones in the building, ensuring consistent temperature control throughout. The system can be controlled through a thermostat, allowing users to adjust the temperature and airflow according to their preferences.
Some of the advantages of a ducted reverse cycle is its energy efficiency. Not only that, many of these systems have a zoning feature that allows you to cool the entire house or individual rooms or zones. With zoning, also different rooms can have different settings or temperatures, allowing flexible cooling solutions. Apart from the ductwork, ducted reverse cycle systems tend to be discreet and sometimes even quieter than split systems.
At Climat, we offer ducted reverse cycle systems from brands such as Daikin, Mitsubishi Electric and Rinnai.
2. Ducted gas heaters
Ducted gas heating consists of a heating unit connected to a series of outlets via a system of ducts. It is powered by natural gas or liquified petroleum gas and can be controlled via a thermostat or a remote. After pulling in cold air, the system warms it up and directs it through a sequence of ducts. The air subsequently returns to the heater via a return air grille, allowing the cycle to continue. There are some ducted systems that do both heating and cooling too. These are called reverse-cycle air conditioners.
If you do decide on ducted gas heating, just remember that it requires the appropriate ventilation to ensure that there is no carbon monoxide spill. Carbon monoxide is a harmful gas that you can’t see or smell. Inhaling high levels of carbon monoxide can lead to symptoms such as headache, dizziness, nausea, and even death in extreme cases. Thus, it is not only necessary to install gas heating properly, it should also be serviced regularly by a qualified technician. This also means that you will be paying regular servicing fees on top of the costs of installation and operation.
Climat offers ducted gas heating from reputable brands such as Brivis and Rinnai.
3. Portable electric heaters
dPortable electric heaters are a popular choice in Australia and for good reason. These are great for those who are tight on budget and are looking for a quick way to stay warm. It’s excellent for warming up one to two people but to heat up a bigger space. Aside from not needing installations, portable electric heaters come in a variety of sizes at unbeatable prices. However, they are not as energy-efficient as a split system air conditioner. Looking at its long-term costs, portable heaters can result in the rise of your energy bills, especially if you have them running in multiple rooms.
4. Split System Air Conditioner
Split system air conditioners are favoured by many Australians, as they are one of the most affordable and versatile air conditioning options available. As the name suggests, a split system air conditioner comes in two parts, with one mounted onto the wall indoors and the other sitting on the outside to exhaust heat. It is easy to install, as there is no need for ductwork. Not only that, because split systems don’t require windows for installation, the units can be placed anywhere you’d like.
In terms of energy efficiency, split systems tend to be more energy efficient than most. Ducted heating systems tend to lose energy through ducts and vents. This does not happen with split systems, making them more efficient to run. Plus, they are quiet to run too. Thus, making them ideal for spaces such as home offices and libraries.
More Tips on Staying Warm This Winter
There are other things you can do to stay warm in the coming colder months. Here are our tips to staying warm and toasty that don’t cost a fortune:
Seal external doors
One of the simplest ways to stay warm at home is by sealing the external doors of your home. When a door is properly sealed, it creates a barrier that minimises drafts and reduces heat loss. This helps to create a more comfortable and energy-efficient indoor environment. By sealing gaps and cracks around the door frame, weatherstripping and door sweeps effectively block the entry of cold air, ensuring that the heated air stays inside. This not only improves the overall comfort of the space but also helps to lower heating costs by reducing the need for constant heating.
Let the sun shine
On sunny days, don’t be afraid to let the light in. When the sun is shining, open your curtains or blinds to allow the sunlight to stream into your home. The sun’s rays carry warmth that can naturally heat up your living spaces. Positioning yourself near a sunlit window can provide a cosy and comfortable spot to relax. Additionally, sunlight can help to naturally brighten your home, creating a more inviting and cheerful atmosphere. By maximising the use of natural sunlight, you can harness its warmth and reduce reliance on heating systems, making your home feel snug and welcoming during the colder months.
Choose the right curtains and blinds
Curtains and blinds can be your allies in staying warm during the winter months. These window treatments serve as a barrier between the cold outside air and the warmth within your home. They give an extra layer of insulation when closed, limiting heat loss through the windows. Thick, heavy drapes or blinds with thermal lining are particularly good in trapping heat and keeping draughts out. By closing them in the evenings and at night, you may create a nice and warm environment while saving money on heating.
Change your bedding
The right bedding can make a huge difference. Opting for thick, insulating materials such as flannel, fleece, or microfiber can help trap heat and create a cosy sleep environment. Additionally, investing in extra blankets or a duvet with a higher tog rating provides added warmth. Layering your bedding can also be effective, allowing you to adjust the level of insulation to your comfort. By selecting the right bedding materials and creating a snug sleep environment, you can ensure a restful and warm night’s sleep throughout the winter season.
Switch to a cheaper energy provider
If you don’t want to break the bank, making the switch to a cheaper energy provider is an effective way to keep warm all winter. Shopping around for different energy plans and providers, you can find one that offers competitive rates and potentially significant savings on your heating bills. Look for providers that offer fixed-rate plans or discounts specifically tailored for winter months. Additionally, consider energy-efficient practices such as adjusting your thermostat settings, sealing drafts, and using programmable timers to optimise energy usage. By making the switch to a more affordable energy provider and implementing energy-saving strategies, you can keep your home cosy and comfortable while keeping your winter heating costs under control.
Climat – the most trusted heating and cooling solutions provider
When it comes to heating and cooling, Climat is the most trusted heating and cooling solutions provider in Adelaide. With a wealth of experience and expertise in the industry, We offer a comprehensive range of heating and cooling products that are designed to meet diverse needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for efficient ducted heating systems, energy-saving split systems, or stylish gas log fires, Climat has you covered. Choose from reliable brands such as Daikin, Brivis, Mitsubishi Electric and more for your home.
What sets Climat apart is their commitment to customer satisfaction, evident in their personalised approach, expert advice, and professional installation services. They prioritise the comfort and well-being of their customers, ensuring that every heating and cooling solution is tailored to specific requirements. With a focus on energy efficiency and environmentally friendly solutions, Climat helps customers save on energy costs while minimising their carbon footprint. When choosing Climat, customers can expect reliable, top-quality products, outstanding customer service, and a commitment to creating the perfect indoor climate for every home or business.
Get in touch with us today to get a free quote on heating and cooling in your Adelaide home.