Melbourne winters can be chilly, but keeping your home warm doesn’t have to blow out your energy bills. Many homeowners assume that the only way to stay comfortable is by cranking up the heater, but there are a range of free, effective steps you can take to reduce heating costs. Below, we explore practical, no-cost tips to keep your home warmer and your energy bills lower this winter.
One of the most effective ways to prevent heat loss in winter is by identifying and sealing air leaks around your home. Small gaps and cracks around windows, doors, skirting boards, and floorboards allow cold air to creep in while warm air escapes — essentially wasting your heating. Even something as simple as placing a door snake at the base of an exterior door or rolling up a towel can block a draught. You can also use leftover bubble wrap or scrap cardboard to temporarily insulate windows.
Quick tips to seal in the heat:
Use door snakes or rolled-up towels on internal and external doors
Apply weather stripping or foam tape to window frames
Close off unused rooms to prevent warm air from escaping
Block chimney draughts if the fireplace is not in use
According to energy.gov.au, sealing gaps could reduce energy usage by up to 25%.
Your windows can account for up to 40% of heat loss in a poorly insulated home. Using heavy curtains or thick blinds during winter can help trap heat inside, especially at night when outside temperatures drop. The best part? You likely already own them. Keep your curtains open during the day to let sunlight naturally warm your space, then close them as soon as the sun dips to lock in that warmth.
If you don’t have thermal curtains, try:
Layering a light sheer curtain with a heavier outer layer
Pinning or clipping blankets over curtain rods as a temporary measure
Using tension rods to fit thicker material into rental-friendly window frames
For more insulation tips, check out CHOICE’s winter energy guide.
Adjusting your thermostat just a couple of degrees lower can have a significant impact on your power bill. The recommended heating range for efficiency is between 18°C and 20°C — comfortable enough for most people when dressed appropriately. Every degree above 20°C can increase your heating costs by around 10%.
To stay warm while lowering your thermostat:
Rug up in jumpers, socks, and blankets inside
Use hot water bottles or microwave heat packs
Add rugs to cold flooring like timber or tiles
Only heat rooms you’re actively using
You can find more detailed information on energy-efficient heating habits via Energy Victoria.
Ceiling fans aren’t just for summer. Many models come with a switch to reverse the blade direction, helping to push warm air (which naturally rises) back down into the living space. This subtle but powerful trick keeps you warmer without increasing energy usage — especially in rooms with high ceilings.
How to do it:
Set the fan to spin clockwise on the lowest speed
Turn it on after the heater has been running for 30+ minutes
Use this method in living areas or high-ceilinged spaces
If you’ve never tried this before, refer to your fan’s manual or search your model online for instructions — it’s usually just a small switch near the motor housing. This tip is highlighted in The Daily Telegraph’s article.
Your heating system works harder — and less efficiently — when filters are dirty or clogged. Blocked filters restrict airflow, meaning your unit has to use more energy to deliver the same amount of heat. If you have a ducted gas system or reverse cycle air conditioner, check the return air grille for dust build-up.
Maintenance tips:
Clean reusable filters with a vacuum or warm water
Replace disposable filters as often as recommended (typically every 1–3 months)
Wipe vents and grilles to ensure unobstructed airflow
Schedule a professional service once a year
Keeping filters clean not only helps with heating costs, but also improves air quality. For a general maintenance guide, visit RACV’s energy-efficient tips for winter.
The Victorian Government provides a wealth of free information and advice to help households lower energy use. These include simple guides on behaviour changes, DIY efficiency measures, and available rebates or discounts for appliance upgrades.
Helpful government resources include:
These are particularly useful if you’re not ready to invest in upgrades but still want to improve comfort at home.
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If you’re planning to upgrade your heating system, don’t overlook the Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) Program. This government initiative can help you access high-efficiency heating and cooling systems at significantly reduced prices — in some cases, up to $7,500 in rebates are available depending on your household and location. GT HVAC & Electrical is a registered VEU provider and can help you assess your eligibility, recommend the best energy-efficient unit for your space, and install it professionally.
👉 Learn more about the VEU Rebate