As winter creeps in and temperatures start to drop, many of us are inevitably reaching for our heaters to chase away the chill. However, energy bills during this season can be quite brutal to our wallets. While the recent budget announced an energy bill relief package, many Australians are still seeking ways to stay warm without breaking the bank. After all, according to the Australian Government, heating and cooling can contribute to a staggering 20 to 50 per cent of energy used in homes.

But fear not, our wise Seniors Discount Club members! We've consulted with various experts to bring you the ultimate guide to choosing the best, most cost-effective heaters out there. We've also tossed in some handy tips on how to make small yet energy-saving changes to your home, so you can stay toasty all season long.

Our wallets can take quite a hit from the harshness of energy bills due to our heaters during this season. Source: Brett Sayles/Pexels

Top Tips for Picking the Right Heater for Your Home​

Choosing the most efficient heater for your home might seem daunting with so many options available in the market. Colin Jones, Category Expert at Appliances Online, has graciously shared four key factors to consider when looking for the ideal heater:

1. Understand the desired room: Assess the room size, and consider whether you have a gas connection or require an electric heater. Also, are you planning to use the heater continuously or just at specific times?
2. Insulation is key: Proper insulation helps retain warmth in your room and prevents the need for high heat levels, as heat can escape through the ceiling otherwise.
3. Go for versatility: Opt for a heating system that can be used all year round, such as Split Systems.
4. Embrace the timer function: Find a heater with a timer feature that can automatically switch on/off after a set period.

To determine how much power your heater needs, Jones suggests a simple calculation: a 1000-watt heater is suitable for a 10-square-metre room, while a 1500-watt heater is perfect for a 15-square-metre room and so on.

A Quick Comparison of Heating Options​

To help you decide the most suitable heating option for your home, let's compare some of the most popular options available:

1. Panel heaters: These heaters, with a daily running cost of $1.00, are perfect for large areas like lounge rooms. Some models are portable, while others can be wall-mounted. The quarterly running cost of panel heaters amounts to $91.
2. Fan heaters: Appliances Online recommends fan heaters for smaller spaces like bedrooms and home offices. A portable fan heater costs nearly $220 to run throughout winter, which makes reverse cycle split systems more efficient, as they cost only $50 for the same period.
3. Oil column heaters: The quarterly running cost of these heaters is approximately $136.50.
4. Radiant heaters: These heaters have a quarterly running cost of around $163.80.

Some of the best-rated heaters for energy efficiency are from brands like Dimplex, DeLonghi, Dyson and Rinnai.

Some energy-efficient options include:

Rinnai Titan Unflued Natural Gas Radiant Heater $1199

Dimplex Electric Fire Heater $499

De’Longhi Tower Ceramic Heater $219 (sale price)

Dyson Hot+Cool Fan Heater $699 (sale price)

Extra Tips to Stay Warm and Save Energy​

If you already have a heater or just want to further reduce energy costs, consider these additional tips:

1. Get an electric throw: Origin Energy claims that electric throws are less expensive to run than heaters and can save you about $150 throughout winter.
2. Maintain a temperature of 18-20 degrees: Origin and Compare the Market suggest heating your room within this range, as temperatures above or below this threshold may consume up to 10 per cent more energy.
3. Use door snakes: These simple draft-stoppers can help retain heat and reduce heating costs by up to 25 per cent, as stated by Origin Energy spokespeople.
4. Be energy-savvy: Implement small changes like using energy-efficient lighting, turning off unused appliances, heating only occupied rooms, and opening or closing curtains to trap heat effectively.

Key Takeaways

• Heating can account for 20 to 50 per cent of energy used in homes, so choosing the right heater can save money.
• Various types of heaters are available, including panel heaters, fan heaters, oil column heaters, and reverse cycle split systems. Reverse cycle split systems and panel heaters appear to be the most cost-effective options.
• In addition to choosing the right heater, staying warm efficiently can also be accomplished by using electric throws, keeping the heating to 18-20 degrees, using door snakes, and being energy-efficient in other areas like lighting and appliance use.
• Making small changes in your home and choosing the right heater for your needs can help you save energy while staying warm in the colder months.

In summary, a combination of selecting the right heater and adopting some energy-saving tactics can help you enjoy a warm and comfortable winter without the dreaded energy bill shock.

What are some of your favourite energy-saving tactics or unique ways you have found to balance warmth and affordability during the winter season? Share your wisdom with your fellow club members and ignite a spark of inspiration in the quest for cosy and cost-effective winters!

 

[RTS]

My favourite heaters are my two dogs. They combine the snugglyness of a heated throw and the radiant warmth of a hot water bottle, and soak up the warmth of the column heaters to redistribute it for cuddles.

 

[Barbara V]

I have changed over to a Infra red heater ,had gas before was costing me a arm and a leg last winters bill was really low saved myself at least $200 to $300.They don't need servicing as no moving parts, can't catch fire as it's the marble/ slab that heats

As winter creeps in and temperatures start to drop, many of us are inevitably reaching for our heaters to chase away the chill. However, energy bills during this season can be quite brutal to our wallets. While the recent budget announced an energy bill relief package, many Australians are still seeking ways to stay warm without breaking the bank. After all, according to the Australian Government, heating and cooling can contribute to a staggering 20 to 50 per cent of energy used in homes.

But fear not, our wise Seniors Discount Club members! We've consulted with various experts to bring you the ultimate guide to choosing the best, most cost-effective heaters out there. We've also tossed in some handy tips on how to make small yet energy-saving changes to your home, so you can stay toasty all season long.

View attachment 20772

Our wallets can take quite a hit from the harshness of energy bills due to our heaters during this season. Source: Brett Sayles/Pexels

Top Tips for Picking the Right Heater for Your Home​

Choosing the most efficient heater for your home might seem daunting with so many options available in the market. Colin Jones, Category Expert at Appliances Online, has graciously shared four key factors to consider when looking for the ideal heater:

1. Understand the desired room: Assess the room size, and consider whether you have a gas connection or require an electric heater. Also, are you planning to use the heater continuously or just at specific times?
2. Insulation is key: Proper insulation helps retain warmth in your room and prevents the need for high heat levels, as heat can escape through the ceiling otherwise.
3. Go for versatility: Opt for a heating system that can be used all year round, such as Split Systems.
4. Embrace the timer function: Find a heater with a timer feature that can automatically switch on/off after a set period.

To determine how much power your heater needs, Jones suggests a simple calculation: a 1000-watt heater is suitable for a 10-square-metre room, while a 1500-watt heater is perfect for a 15-square-metre room and so on.

A Quick Comparison of Heating Options​

To help you decide the most suitable heating option for your home, let's compare some of the most popular options available:

1. Panel heaters: These heaters, with a daily running cost of $1.00, are perfect for large areas like lounge rooms. Some models are portable, while others can be wall-mounted. The quarterly running cost of panel heaters amounts to $91.
2. Fan heaters: Appliances Online recommends fan heaters for smaller spaces like bedrooms and home offices. A portable fan heater costs nearly $220 to run throughout winter, which makes reverse cycle split systems more efficient, as they cost only $50 for the same period.
3. Oil column heaters: The quarterly running cost of these heaters is approximately $136.50.
4. Radiant heaters: These heaters have a quarterly running cost of around $163.80.

Some of the best-rated heaters for energy efficiency are from brands like Dimplex, DeLonghi, Dyson and Rinnai.

Some energy-efficient options include:

Rinnai Titan Unflued Natural Gas Radiant Heater $1199

Dimplex Electric Fire Heater $499

De’Longhi Tower Ceramic Heater $219 (sale price)

Dyson Hot+Cool Fan Heater $699 (sale price)

Extra Tips to Stay Warm and Save Energy​

If you already have a heater or just want to further reduce energy costs, consider these additional tips:

1. Get an electric throw: Origin Energy claims that electric throws are less expensive to run than heaters and can save you about $150 throughout winter.
2. Maintain a temperature of 18-20 degrees: Origin and Compare the Market suggest heating your room within this range, as temperatures above or below this threshold may consume up to 10 per cent more energy.
3. Use door snakes: These simple draft-stoppers can help retain heat and reduce heating costs by up to 25 per cent, as stated by Origin Energy spokespeople.
4. Be energy-savvy: Implement small changes like using energy-efficient lighting, turning off unused appliances, heating only occupied rooms, and opening or closing curtains to trap heat effectively.

Key Takeaways

• Heating can account for 20 to 50 per cent of energy used in homes, so choosing the right heater can save money.
• Various types of heaters are available, including panel heaters, fan heaters, oil column heaters, and reverse cycle split systems. Reverse cycle split systems and panel heaters appear to be the most cost-effective options.
• In addition to choosing the right heater, staying warm efficiently can also be accomplished by using electric throws, keeping the heating to 18-20 degrees, using door snakes, and being energy-efficient in other areas like lighting and appliance use.
• Making small changes in your home and choosing the right heater for your needs can help you save energy while staying warm in the colder months.

In summary, a combination of selecting the right heater and adopting some energy-saving tactics can help you enjoy a warm and comfortable winter without the dreaded energy bill shock.

What are some of your favourite energy-saving tactics or unique ways you have found to balance warmth and affordability during the winter season? Share your wisdom with your fellow club members and ignite a spark of inspiration in the quest for cosy and cost-effective winters!

 

[Barbara V]

I switched last winter to a Infrared marble/ceramic free standing moveable heater. Had gas before and my gas bill (bottled) was enormous I have cut 2/3rds off of the bill no gas just electric .My electric bill has only increased by a small amount

As winter creeps in and temperatures start to drop, many of us are inevitably reaching for our heaters to chase away the chill. However, energy bills during this season can be quite brutal to our wallets. While the recent budget announced an energy bill relief package, many Australians are still seeking ways to stay warm without breaking the bank. After all, according to the Australian Government, heating and cooling can contribute to a staggering 20 to 50 per cent of energy used in homes.

But fear not, our wise Seniors Discount Club members! We've consulted with various experts to bring you the ultimate guide to choosing the best, most cost-effective heaters out there. We've also tossed in some handy tips on how to make small yet energy-saving changes to your home, so you can stay toasty all season long.

View attachment 20772

Our wallets can take quite a hit from the harshness of energy bills due to our heaters during this season. Source: Brett Sayles/Pexels

Top Tips for Picking the Right Heater for Your Home​

Choosing the most efficient heater for your home might seem daunting with so many options available in the market. Colin Jones, Category Expert at Appliances Online, has graciously shared four key factors to consider when looking for the ideal heater:

1. Understand the desired room: Assess the room size, and consider whether you have a gas connection or require an electric heater. Also, are you planning to use the heater continuously or just at specific times?
2. Insulation is key: Proper insulation helps retain warmth in your room and prevents the need for high heat levels, as heat can escape through the ceiling otherwise.
3. Go for versatility: Opt for a heating system that can be used all year round, such as Split Systems.
4. Embrace the timer function: Find a heater with a timer feature that can automatically switch on/off after a set period.

To determine how much power your heater needs, Jones suggests a simple calculation: a 1000-watt heater is suitable for a 10-square-metre room, while a 1500-watt heater is perfect for a 15-square-metre room and so on.

A Quick Comparison of Heating Options​

To help you decide the most suitable heating option for your home, let's compare some of the most popular options available:

1. Panel heaters: These heaters, with a daily running cost of $1.00, are perfect for large areas like lounge rooms. Some models are portable, while others can be wall-mounted. The quarterly running cost of panel heaters amounts to $91.
2. Fan heaters: Appliances Online recommends fan heaters for smaller spaces like bedrooms and home offices. A portable fan heater costs nearly $220 to run throughout winter, which makes reverse cycle split systems more efficient, as they cost only $50 for the same period.
3. Oil column heaters: The quarterly running cost of these heaters is approximately $136.50.
4. Radiant heaters: These heaters have a quarterly running cost of around $163.80.

Some of the best-rated heaters for energy efficiency are from brands like Dimplex, DeLonghi, Dyson and Rinnai.

Some energy-efficient options include:

Rinnai Titan Unflued Natural Gas Radiant Heater $1199

Dimplex Electric Fire Heater $499

De’Longhi Tower Ceramic Heater $219 (sale price)

Dyson Hot+Cool Fan Heater $699 (sale price)

Extra Tips to Stay Warm and Save Energy​

If you already have a heater or just want to further reduce energy costs, consider these additional tips:

1. Get an electric throw: Origin Energy claims that electric throws are less expensive to run than heaters and can save you about $150 throughout winter.
2. Maintain a temperature of 18-20 degrees: Origin and Compare the Market suggest heating your room within this range, as temperatures above or below this threshold may consume up to 10 per cent more energy.
3. Use door snakes: These simple draft-stoppers can help retain heat and reduce heating costs by up to 25 per cent, as stated by Origin Energy spokespeople.
4. Be energy-savvy: Implement small changes like using energy-efficient lighting, turning off unused appliances, heating only occupied rooms, and opening or closing curtains to trap heat effectively.

Key Takeaways

• Heating can account for 20 to 50 per cent of energy used in homes, so choosing the right heater can save money.
• Various types of heaters are available, including panel heaters, fan heaters, oil column heaters, and reverse cycle split systems. Reverse cycle split systems and panel heaters appear to be the most cost-effective options.
• In addition to choosing the right heater, staying warm efficiently can also be accomplished by using electric throws, keeping the heating to 18-20 degrees, using door snakes, and being energy-efficient in other areas like lighting and appliance use.
• Making small changes in your home and choosing the right heater for your needs can help you save energy while staying warm in the colder months.

In summary, a combination of selecting the right heater and adopting some energy-saving tactics can help you enjoy a warm and comfortable winter without the dreaded energy bill shock.

What are some of your favourite energy-saving tactics or unique ways you have found to balance warmth and affordability during the winter season? Share your wisdom with your fellow club members and ignite a spark of inspiration in the quest for cosy and cost-effective winters!

 

[Jennylolo]

I use split system to take nip out of air, make sure everything is closed. Turn it off and layer up and get under blankets.

 

[Suzanne rose]

I love my wood heater and the heat that comes off it. Pretty much heats my whole house. I have it in my family room opposite my upstairs stairs and the heat goes upstairs as well .

 

[mark godwin]

As winter creeps in and temperatures start to drop, many of us are inevitably reaching for our heaters to chase away the chill. However, energy bills during this season can be quite brutal to our wallets. While the recent budget announced an energy bill relief package, many Australians are still seeking ways to stay warm without breaking the bank. After all, according to the Australian Government, heating and cooling can contribute to a staggering 20 to 50 per cent of energy used in homes.

But fear not, our wise Seniors Discount Club members! We've consulted with various experts to bring you the ultimate guide to choosing the best, most cost-effective heaters out there. We've also tossed in some handy tips on how to make small yet energy-saving changes to your home, so you can stay toasty all season long.

View attachment 20772

Our wallets can take quite a hit from the harshness of energy bills due to our heaters during this season. Source: Brett Sayles/Pexels

Top Tips for Picking the Right Heater for Your Home​

Choosing the most efficient heater for your home might seem daunting with so many options available in the market. Colin Jones, Category Expert at Appliances Online, has graciously shared four key factors to consider when looking for the ideal heater:

1. Understand the desired room: Assess the room size, and consider whether you have a gas connection or require an electric heater. Also, are you planning to use the heater continuously or just at specific times?
2. Insulation is key: Proper insulation helps retain warmth in your room and prevents the need for high heat levels, as heat can escape through the ceiling otherwise.
3. Go for versatility: Opt for a heating system that can be used all year round, such as Split Systems.
4. Embrace the timer function: Find a heater with a timer feature that can automatically switch on/off after a set period.

To determine how much power your heater needs, Jones suggests a simple calculation: a 1000-watt heater is suitable for a 10-square-metre room, while a 1500-watt heater is perfect for a 15-square-metre room and so on.

A Quick Comparison of Heating Options​

To help you decide the most suitable heating option for your home, let's compare some of the most popular options available:

1. Panel heaters: These heaters, with a daily running cost of $1.00, are perfect for large areas like lounge rooms. Some models are portable, while others can be wall-mounted. The quarterly running cost of panel heaters amounts to $91.
2. Fan heaters: Appliances Online recommends fan heaters for smaller spaces like bedrooms and home offices. A portable fan heater costs nearly $220 to run throughout winter, which makes reverse cycle split systems more efficient, as they cost only $50 for the same period.
3. Oil column heaters: The quarterly running cost of these heaters is approximately $136.50.
4. Radiant heaters: These heaters have a quarterly running cost of around $163.80.

Some of the best-rated heaters for energy efficiency are from brands like Dimplex, DeLonghi, Dyson and Rinnai.

Some energy-efficient options include:

Rinnai Titan Unflued Natural Gas Radiant Heater $1199

Dimplex Electric Fire Heater $499

De’Longhi Tower Ceramic Heater $219 (sale price)

Dyson Hot+Cool Fan Heater $699 (sale price)

Extra Tips to Stay Warm and Save Energy​

If you already have a heater or just want to further reduce energy costs, consider these additional tips:

1. Get an electric throw: Origin Energy claims that electric throws are less expensive to run than heaters and can save you about $150 throughout winter.
2. Maintain a temperature of 18-20 degrees: Origin and Compare the Market suggest heating your room within this range, as temperatures above or below this threshold may consume up to 10 per cent more energy.
3. Use door snakes: These simple draft-stoppers can help retain heat and reduce heating costs by up to 25 per cent, as stated by Origin Energy spokespeople.
4. Be energy-savvy: Implement small changes like using energy-efficient lighting, turning off unused appliances, heating only occupied rooms, and opening or closing curtains to trap heat effectively.

Key Takeaways

• Heating can account for 20 to 50 per cent of energy used in homes, so choosing the right heater can save money.
• Various types of heaters are available, including panel heaters, fan heaters, oil column heaters, and reverse cycle split systems. Reverse cycle split systems and panel heaters appear to be the most cost-effective options.
• In addition to choosing the right heater, staying warm efficiently can also be accomplished by using electric throws, keeping the heating to 18-20 degrees, using door snakes, and being energy-efficient in other areas like lighting and appliance use.
• Making small changes in your home and choosing the right heater for your needs can help you save energy while staying warm in the colder months.

In summary, a combination of selecting the right heater and adopting some energy-saving tactics can help you enjoy a warm and comfortable winter without the dreaded energy bill shock.

What are some of your favourite energy-saving tactics or unique ways you have found to balance warmth and affordability during the winter season? Share your wisdom with your fellow club members and ignite a spark of inspiration in the quest for cosy and cost-effective winters!

changed to gas recently way better . having sold heaters for too longgg 2400w from a $20 fan heater is the same as a dyson $699 . do the physics , watts in watts out , no heater can give twice the heat out .

 

[pymmie]

We have ducted floor heater and spit system on the wall as well as a Dyson heater air purifier. We use the floor heater on cold mornings for 30 minutes to take chill off house. Once we have showered and dressed, we stay warm with Thermals. Moving around doing cores keeps us warm. As the temperature drops of an evening the Split wall system comes on warming the kitchen, family room and lounge room. which then stays warm. We turn that off after dinner, close the lounge door and use the Dyson which we have set on temperature control. this works for us quite well