Shocking detail in Bunnings aisle leaves shopper speechless

As the chill of winter begins to settle across Australia, many Aussies look for ways to keep their homes warm and toasty.

The seasonal shift means that heaters are flying off the shelves, replacing the fans of summer in our favourite stores.

However, according to one Bunnings shopper, not all heaters are created equal, and some could send your energy bills through the roof.


Sustainability advocate Sarah Aubrey was browsing the warehouse's heater aisle when a troubling detail many might overlook struck her.

Almost every portable heater, regardless of size, boasted a power consumption of at least 2000 watts.

As someone deeply interested in sustainable energy, Sarah was 'shocked' to see how 'energy hungry' these devices were.

In comparison, split cycle wall units use around 1000 watts to heat a room and then drop to 300-400 watts to maintain the temperature.


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In a video, shopper and sustainability advocate Sarah Aubrey called for houses to have wall-split systems to be a requirement. Image Credit: TikTok/Sarah Aubrey


The difference in energy consumption is stark and could mean the difference between an affordable energy bill and financial strain.

Sarah shared her discovery on social media and expressed her concerns about the hidden costs of 'bargain' heaters.

'[Wall split systems] shouldn't just be for people who can afford to put them in,' she said.

'We have cheap bills, but what about the rest? There needs to be a minimum standard.'



According to Finder's Energy Expert Mariam Gabaji, the average cost of using a portable heater for four hours a day throughout winter is approximately $228.

In contrast, a more energy-efficient reverse cycle split system would cost around $127 for the same usage.
She said reverse cycle split systems are more efficient as they draw heat from outside air rather than generating heat.

The downside of this heating system is the upfront cost of purchasing and installation, ranging from $1,000 to $5,000.

However, these systems can save money in the long run and double as a cooling system during summer.

Aubrey and Gabaji recommend oil heaters as one of the most energy-efficient alternatives for those unable to install a wall split system.

Sarah cut her electricity bills significantly by installing an energy-efficient wall-split air conditioner and enhancing insulation in her home.

She also replaced gas appliances with their electric counterparts.


Houses with proper insulation, draught-proofing, and double-glazed windows retain heat far better than those without, leading to significantly lower energy bills.

However, Sarah points out that making these changes is not feasible for everyone, especially renters and those in social housing who cannot make permanent modifications.

She calls for a minimum standard in Australian housing, where properties must have insulation and at least one wall split system, with the responsibility falling on landlords.

As we brace ourselves for the colder months, we must be aware of the long-term costs associated with our heating choices.

When shopping for a heater, consider the price tag on the shelf and the impact on your energy bill and the environment. It's a decision that requires some thought and, potentially, some research.
Key Takeaways

  • A Bunnings shopper was surprised by the high energy consumption of portable heaters sold in-store, with many using 2000 watts.
  • Sarah Aubrey compared the portable heaters' energy usage to that of more efficient split cycle wall units, which consume significantly less power.
  • Finder's research showed that heating a home with a portable heater could be more expensive than using a reverse-cycle split system.
  • Aubrey, a sustainability advocate, highlighted the need for minimum standards for energy efficiency in Australian homes that aid in harsh seasons while reducing energy bills.
How do you keep yourselves warm during the cool months? Share your experiences and tips with us in the comments below.
 
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Power consumption by electric heaters is no greater than that for toasters, irons and kettles. All electrical appliances cannot be rated at more than 2400 watts.
I agree but a to
Power consumption by electric heaters is no greater than that for toasters, irons and kettles. All electrical appliances cannot be rated at more than 2400 watts.
yes I agree, but a toaster, iron or kettle is on for a much shorter time than heater.
 
We have used a GAS heater for 30+ years, isolated ceilings and walls many years ago. Until the stupid government makes Gas usage illegal we will keep using it.
 
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....and at least one wall split system, with the responsibility falling on landlords........

Up go rents........! Didn't at one time we used to wear clothes?
 
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Still swear by my infrared heater purchased 2 winters ago it is so cheap to run and provides the heat I require.Will be getting a smaller one this year to use in another room
 
Power consumption by electric heaters is no greater than that for toasters, irons and kettles. All electrical appliances cannot be rated at more than 2400 watts.
That is why I don't use A/C, iron, kettle or oven and every light is the place is LCD
 
Why do people stray from the primary object being discussed? We are talking about heating appliances I believe.
 
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Power consumption by electric heaters is no greater than that for toasters, irons and kettles. All electrical appliances cannot be rated at more than 2400 watts.
You don't have jugs and toasters running for hours at a time like a heater.
 
I did the opposite, I changed all appliances possible from electric to gas (bottled), including instantaneous gas hot water, heaters, and cut my power bills in half! More efficient, not waiting for elements to heat up before they heated anything else. Unfortunately, my new home is all electric, and boy, don't I know it! As for "renewable" energy ... hurting like hell, the only thing renewable about it is the amount of subsidies being paid for every crackpot scheme, by taxpayer money hungry schemers, replacement of panels and turbines every 15 years, and the TRILLIONS in cost of new transmission lines.
 
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I did the opposite, I changed all appliances possible from electric to gas (bottled), including instantaneous gas hot water, heaters, and cut my power bills in half! More efficient, not waiting for elements to heat up before they heated anything else. Unfortunately, my new home is all electric, and boy, don't I know it! As for "renewable" energy ... hurting like hell, the only thing renewable about it is the amount of subsidies being paid for every crackpot scheme, by taxpayer money hungry schemers, replacement of panels and turbines every 15 years, and the TRILLIONS in cost of new transmission lines.
Bottled gas prices went through the roof....
 
Of course always if you don’t have the money up front the consequence is that usage will cost you More. Just see the reality of not having the money to buy a house - rents eat up your finances
 
Of course always if you don’t have the money up front the consequence is that usage will cost you More. Just see the reality of not having the money to buy a house - rents eat up your finances
Especially with a loan of $1,000,000... I would not sleep at night.
 
Not all of us think about energy costs until we receive our heating bills. And I agree with the idea that more efficient heating systems, such as split systems, may be a more long-term, environmentally responsible choice. But, of course, it is not always possible to install such systems, especially for renters or those living in social housing. It really provokes thought about housing standards in Australia and how heating can be made more affordable and sustainable for everyone.
 

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