Despite Brisbane being best known for its hot summers and mild winters, things can get a little chilly at night and early in the morning and, let’s face it, most Brisbanites don’t cope very well when temperatures go below 10 degrees.
Our houses are not exactly built for winter, and it can get quite chilly inside our houses. If you have a split system air conditioning or ducted air conditioning unit which also heats (nowadays, most of them do), knowing what is the best temperature for your heating system in winter in Brisbane can have its advantages.
It’s a common opinion that a temperature of around 20 degrees is pretty close to the ideal mark. But there’s more to consider than just that magic number.
The ideal constant temperature for your heater
As opposed to turning your heater on at a high temperature and then turning it off when it gets too hot, it’s better to find the ideal constant temperature and keep it running – which can be more economically efficient and better.
What temperature a room should be is an argument that has been running since heating and cooling machines were created. Debates rage on in offices and it’s quite likely to be a point of conscientiousness for residential air conditioning too. Everybody’s different, and their body temperatures range throughout the day. It’s near impossible to find the perfect temperature for all, however, there are some suggestions and guides that can help you find a compromise.
The most common advice is to set the temperature around 20 degrees Celsius in winter and, if it’s at home, then you should lower it by a few degrees, possibly down to 18. General science also confirms that 20 degrees are a temperature that is closest to “pleasing all”.
It’s important to note, however, that if you’re looking to save on your energy bills then you can do that by lowering the thermostat. With energy bills all around the world skyrocketing, you can keep your energy costs within budget by layering up with a few more clothes.
In fact, it’s estimated that every degree you add to your heating system may lead to a 10% energy increase to power that increase. Energy-saving companies have claimed that you save 3% of your total costs for every degree you reduce. If you were to lower the temperature by 7 to 10 degrees for eight hours a day, it can decrease your electric bills by up to 50%. So if you time it right, the difference of a few degrees can save or cost you money.
How can I keep my house warm in winter?
An electrical heating system is just one tool to keep your house warm in winter, but there are several things you can do that will help to keep your house warmer and will help your heater run more efficiently. These include:
- Insulate floors and walls
- Insulate your roof
- Double glazed windows
- Add rugs to your floor in winter
- Move your curtains and blinds according to the sun – let the sun in, keep the warmth in by pulling blinds and curtains down after the sun has left the room.
All of the above plus a well-maintained heating system will keep you warm in the cooler months. Some of the above-mentioned improvements will also contribute towards keeping your house cooler in summer.
When Should I Turn on the Heating?
There is no hard or fast answer to this question. It all depends on personal preferences and which season you are in. Scientists have even tried to give a recommended temperature for when you should turn on your heating machine. If the thermostat reads between 17 and 18 degrees, it’s reasonable to switch on the heating.
What You Should and Shouldn’t do During the Winter
- Have your air-con serviced on a regular basis by a professional air conditioning service specialist. They will clean the vents, filters or grills to get rid of the dirt and dust which builds up over time. If there is a buildup of dirt and dust over a period of time, it can block airflow and also spread allergens throughout the home. In addition, a well-maintained unit means your air conditioner will last for many years to come.
- Try setting up your machine to switch on and off at certain, set times during the day. By having the heating consistent you will use the heater more efficiently as opposed to switching it on and off constantly.
- Make sure you schedule regular maintenance services from professionals. If you want real value for money on your system and want it to run smoothly for the long term, then this short-term action can go a long way.
- Don’t switch the heating on and instantly raise the temperature to the highest setting. As the boiler is not yet warm, being forced to operate at its maximum as soon as it’s on can put a strain on your heater and is not the best way to use it.
- One of the worst things you can do to your heater is turn it on and off multiple times a day. This practice can severely reduce its lifespan as it can cause significant damage to the parts due to the constant change of moisture being produced. It is recommended that once you turn your heating on, you should let it run for a full 3-hour cycle.
Should I consider a Reverse Cycle Air Conditioner?
In a city like Brisbane, there is a need for both a cooling system, during the summer, and a heating system during the winter. A reverse-cycle air conditioner is the best choice for Australian homes as the appliance carries out both jobs.
It’s true that this option is not the most cost-effective, however when taken into account its use in 2 out of 4 seasons it’s a great investment option. It’s true that they cost more money to purchase when compared to single-functional cooling/heating machines. However they are a great choice when prioritizing energy consumption, so it comes down to how you plan on using it. If you have a long-term view then reverse-cycle air conditioners can work well for you.
Its cost does increase due to the need for professional installation and professional maintenance on a regular basis, however, if that service is carried out when it’s meant to be then your unit can last up to 20 years!
FAQs
Should I Buy a Wood Burning Heater?
These have made a comeback in recent times. These wood burners warm up a space gradually over a period of time and contribute aesthetically with their classic look.
If you are after that romantic look of the fireplace, these burners are just the thing to get, but in terms of efficiency, an air conditioning/heating system is far more efficient. Also, in order for you to have a wood-burning heater, your home must have a chimney system built before.
If that’s not the case, a more cost-efficient solution could be smaller and cheaper heaters that run on gas or electricity.
Final Thoughts
While it’s a common opinion that 20 degrees are a good temperature for your heating system in winter, other factors such as keeping the temperature constant and improving your premises’ insulation and overall thermal efficiency all play a part.