Winter Energy-Saving Tips

How to Keep Your Home Warm Without Breaking the Bank

As temperatures drop, the urge to keep your home warm can quickly lead to rising power bills. But staying cosy in winter doesn’t have to cost the earth. With a few practical energy-saving tips, you can reduce your electricity use and keep your home warm and dry through the coldest months.

Whether you’re heating a home in Auckland, Wellington, or anywhere else in New Zealand, these winter energy-saving ideas can help make your household more efficient and your power bill more manageable.

• Use an Electric Blanket Efficiently: Looking for a low-cost way to stay warm at night? Electric blankets are one of the most affordable heating options. When used nightly, they cost just over $10 for the entire winter season – a fraction of the cost of electric heaters. Just remember to switch it off before sleeping, and aim to keep bedroom temperatures at a comfortable 16°C. 
• Cook Smarter with a Slow Cooker: Slow cookers are a great winter staple and also a smart energy-saving tool. Running a crock pot all day uses around one-third the electricity of cooking a roast in a standard oven for two hours. Plus, they’re perfect for hearty winter meals like soups, stews, and casseroles. 
• Clean Your Heat Pump Filter: To keep your heat pump running efficiently, clean the filter every three months. A clogged filter makes your system work harder and use more electricity. Simply slide off the cover, lift out the filter, and vacuum it. This quick DIY task can make a big difference to your home heating costs in winter. 
• Improve Dryer Efficiency by Cleaning the Lint Filter: A blocked lint filter reduces your dryer’s efficiency and increases energy use. Give it a quick vacuum to improve performance and help your clothes dry faster. It’s a small habit that adds up to real power savings over the season. 
• Switch to LED Lighting: If you’re still using incandescent, halogen, or CFL bulbs, now’s the time to upgrade to LEDs. LED light bulbs use far less energy, last much longer, and help lower your household’s overall electricity consumption. 
• Compare Power Plans: Want to cut your power bill this winter? Check if you’re on the best electricity plan. Visit Powerswitch.org.nz to compare energy providers and deals. If you're currently on a spot-pricing tariff, consider switching to a fixed-rate plan during winter to avoid expensive evening peak rates. 
• Ventilate Your Home Daily: A common winter mistake is sealing up the house to keep warm – but that can lead to damp, mould, and musty smells. To prevent this, open windows for 10–15 minutes each day, especially after cooking, showering, or drying clothes indoors. Good ventilation keeps your home dry and easier to heat. 
• Use Rugs and Layers for Extra Warmth: Wooden or tiled floors can feel cold and lose heat fast. Adding rugs provides insulation and makes rooms feel warmer. Throw blankets and layered bedding are also an energy-efficient way to stay warm without cranking up the heater. 
• Make the Most of Your Curtains: Curtains are one of the easiest ways to retain heat indoors. Open them during the day to let in natural sunlight and warmth. As soon as the sun sets, close them to lock in the heat and reduce heat loss through windows.

Save Energy and Stay Warm This Winter

Reducing your winter power bill doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort. These energy-saving tips are simple, effective, and perfect for New Zealand homes. By making small changes, you can heat your home more efficiently, reduce your energy use, and enjoy a warm, healthy living space all season long.