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With SA power prices set to rise from 1 July, RAA is encouraging homeowners to take steps to reduce heat loss and avoid winter bill shock.
Heating accounts for almost half of a typical household’s power usage during winter, and simply draught-proofing doors and windows by sealing gaps could bring heating costs down by up to 25%, according to the State Government*.
RAA Energy also recommends the ideal thermostat temperature for heating appliances is between 18-21 degrees Celsius – and setting the louvres towards the floor can help heat the home quickly as hot air rises.
Effective insulation can also reduce heat lost through ceilings and walls by up to 60%, with a typical home losing heat from the:
RAA General Manager Home & Energy Ben Owen said with electricity prices set to rise this July, now is a good time to look at your home’s energy efficiency to avoid winter bill shock.
“Winter can be a time of high power usage as we all seek to keep our homes warm and toasty, but avoiding unnecessary heat loss and shifting the use of big appliances to ‘Shoulder and Off-peak periods’ could save you hundreds of dollars.” Mr Owen said.
“Have a close look at your doors and windows for any small gaps – sealing these up can be an easy way to save big on your heating costs.
“Appliance running costs can also be reduced by up to 10% for every degree lower they are set, so we recommend around 21 degrees or just below to maximise efficiency.
“While it’s tempting, try to avoid using the shower to keep warm – as heating hot water can account for over 20% of household power use. If you’re having an evening shower after footy training, aim for four minutes.
“RAA also offers Trade Assist to support members in improving their home’s energy efficiency.
“Whether you are looking to get roof insulation or a fan installed, RAA can connect you with a licenced and reliable tradie.
“Electrical and plumbing services are also available 24/7 – while roof repairs, carpenters, air conditioning repairers and general maintenance is also covered – with a 12-month warranty on workmanship.
“RAA Trade Assist takes the stress out of organising home repairs and maintenance, while ensuring your appliances are being utilised as efficiently as possible, which may ultimately help cut power bill costs.”
Mr Owen also recommended shopping around for a better deal on energy.
“June is a good time to re-assess your energy provider and shop around, with a recent ACCC report** revealing some households could be saving around $300 a year just by switching plans,” Mr Owen said.
“It’s easy to assume your energy provider is offering you the best deal available, but unfortunately we know in many cases, consumers are not often on their retailer’s best plan.
“Unlike most electricity providers, RAA Energy doesn’t profit from the electricity our members use; we charge a monthly subscription and pass on the cost of electricity direct to the member without a retail markup.***
“Plus, we provide our members with personalised monthly energy insights^ to help households understand their energy use and get their electricity bills down even further.”
Tips to reduce your heating bill this winter:
**Inquiry into the National Electricity Market report – December 2024, pg 48
***Monthly fee, T & Cs apply. RAA Energy is a trading name of the licensed energy retailer Energy Locals Pty Ltd, ACN 606 408 879.
^ Monthly billing and personalised energy insight services are only available to customers with a compatible smart meter installed at the premises.