How to save money on your power bill this winter

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The cost of living is constantly rising, and energy costs are no exception. So if you want to save money on your power bill, you'll need to take action now.

You might think you're doing everything right to save money on your power bill. But there are some easy ways to cut back and save even more money. Here's how to save money on your power bill by using these simple tips.

Before you break out the heaters and electric blankets, you should enlist the services of an electrician in Melbourne (or the city you live in) to test your sockets and appliances.

When you leave these warming devices in storage for six months, things can go wrong. You don't want your appliances bleeding excess power or - worse - becoming a safety hazard for you and your family. So it always pays to have a licenced electrician inspect your home before winter.

The cost of heating your home is going to be the most significant part of your electricity bill. Around 40 per cent of your electricity expenses each winter is chewed up by your heating devices, so you have two options. You can either change the way you heat your home or reduce how much energy it takes to do so.

If you choose to update or upgrade your heating appliances this winter, ensure you check the energy rating. As a rule of thumb, gas heaters and reverse cycle air-conditioners set to heating mode will be the most energy-efficient.

However, using independent, portable heating devices will impact your electricity bill more, and they can also be a fire risk, so think carefully before investing in those appliances.

If you elect to use your existing heating systems, keep the thermostat between 18 and 20 degrees Celsius for maximum efficiency.

Every degree that you dial the thermostat up will cost you an extra 10 per cent on your heating expenses. A common tip is to drop the thermostat by a single degree. You won't notice the difference and will save 10 per cent on your heating.

Along with your heating, your hot water consumption will be a heavy burden on your power expenses in winter. However, there are a few things you can do that will reduce this consumption.

We know everyone loves a hot shower in winter. So we recommend the favourite song method of showering. Simply purchase a low-cost shower media device and pop your favourite song on.

Then, when the song is over, it is time to hop out. You will be amazed at how much hot water you will save (as long as you are not putting 10-minute progressive metal epic songs on).

There are other ways to reduce your hot water consumption as well, like replacing your shower head with a more water-efficient model. If there are any leaks, they should be repaired immediately as well.

These devices, also known as an advanced meter or 'type 4' meter, monitor how much energy you are using and how you use electricity in your home. The data is fed to your smart device (phone or tablet), so you can discover where you can find greater efficiencies in your home.

A smart meter will allow you to take control of your household's power usage by giving detailed information about what appliances are using the most energy for homeowners to make changes accordingly. You might be surprised which appliances are costing you the most money.

Saving money on your power bill this winter doesn't mean going without. As you can see, with a few simple changes you can cut costs and stay warm and cosy at the same time.