Best Temperature for Heater in Winter Australia: What Is It?
Australia’s winters may not bring snow to most parts of the country, but the chill in the air is real enough to crank up the heater. Yet, how warm is too warm? What’s the best temperature for both comfort and cost-efficiency?
In this guide, we dive into the best temperature for heaters in winter in Australia. We’ll begin with a quick overview of the types of heaters available, explore the ideal temperature for comfort and energy efficiency, and then discuss the key factors that influence your ideal thermostat setting. Finally, we’ll wrap up with powerful tips for saving energy (and money) during the colder months. Dive in now!
Quick Overview of Different Types of Heaters Available
Before setting the right temperature, it’s helpful to understand the various heating options available in Australian homes and offices. Each type has its own energy use, warmth delivery, and ideal usage situation.
Electric Heaters
Electric heaters are the most common type found in Australian households. These include fan heaters, oil-filled column heaters, and convection panel heaters. They’re generally portable, easy to use, and suitable for heating small to medium rooms.
However, they can consume a lot of electricity if used constantly at high temperatures. If you're using electric heaters in areas prone to outages, it’s wise to pair them with an emergency power supply to ensure uninterrupted heating, especially during winter nights or storm-related blackouts.
Gas Heaters
Natural gas and LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) heaters are popular in areas where the gas supply is reliable. These heaters are efficient, especially in large spaces. Flued models are vented to the outside, safer for indoor use, while unflued models must be used in well-ventilated areas due to emissions.
Reverse Cycle Air Conditioners
Also known as split systems, reverse cycle air conditioners can heat and cool your space. They’re considered one of the most energy-efficient heating options when used properly. While the initial investment is higher, the running costs are often lower compared to electric heaters.
Portable Radiant Heaters
These heaters use infrared radiation to heat objects and people directly rather than the air. They are fast-acting and perfect for targeted heating, such as warming up a workspace or a reading corner.
What Is the Ideal Temperature for Comfort and Energy Efficiency?
Now it is time to introduce the ideal temperature for heating in Australian winters.
According to the Australian Government, the recommended indoor temperature in winter is between 18°C and 22°C. This range strikes a balance between comfort and energy efficiency.
In office or commercial spaces, this balance is even more important. Keeping temperatures in this range:
Reduces overuse of HVAC systems.
Keeps employees comfortable.
Extends the life of your equipment.
Minimizes the risk of cold-related complaints.
Why this range? Setting your heater too high not only spikes your power bills but also places unnecessary strain on your heating system. Each degree above 20°C can increase your energy usage by up to 10%.
There’s also a benefit for backup power systems. If you're relying on a UPS power supply during outages, maintaining this efficient temperature range ensures your battery lasts longer. Overheating or setting too high a target can cause the UPS to drain rapidly, leaving you vulnerable during blackouts.
Factors Affecting Heater Temperature Settings
While 18°C to 22°C is the ideal heater temp, it isn’t a one-size-fits-all rule. Multiple factors affect how warm your home feels and how effective your heating system is. Consider the following points to adjust the right temperature at home.
Room Size and Ceiling Height
Large or open-plan rooms require more energy to heat. Similarly, high ceilings allow warm air to rise, leaving you feeling cold at ground level. You might need a slightly higher setting or better insulation to compensate.
Insulation Quality
Homes with poor insulation lose heat rapidly. Walls, ceilings, and windows without proper insulation force your heater to work harder to maintain temperature, often leading to higher energy bills and inefficient heating.
Outside Weather Conditions
A cold snap in Canberra is very different from a mild winter day in Brisbane. Adjusting the indoor temperature slightly according to outdoor conditions helps maintain comfort without overburdening your system.
Window and Door Seals
Draughty windows and doors can let warm air escape. Even a well-set thermostat won’t help if your home continuously loses heat. Ensuring good sealing can allow you to lower your thermostat by 1–2 degrees without feeling the difference.
Personal and Health Needs
Elderly residents, young children, or those with medical conditions may require slightly higher temperatures for health and comfort. In such cases, aim for 21–22°C and pair it with blankets or thermal clothing to avoid overreliance on heating.
Tips for Saving Energy While Using Your Heater
With so many variables influencing your heating needs, saving energy becomes a matter of adopting smarter habits. Here are practical, high-impact tips to help you reduce your winter power bills.
Use a Programmable Thermostat
Smart thermostats allow you to set schedules based on time of day and room occupancy. This means your heater runs only when necessary, like warming the room before you wake up or shutting off during work hours.
Close Off Unused Rooms
Focus on heating in areas you actually use. Close doors to spare bedrooms or unused hallways to prevent warm air from dispersing unnecessarily.
Layer Up Before You Heat Up
It might sound basic, but adding a jumper or using a blanket can reduce the temptation to raise the thermostat. Try this before bumping up the heater by a few degrees.
Go Solar
Australia's abundance of sunshine makes solar energy one of the best investments for winter heating.
Pairing your heating system with solar panels and a portable power station allows you to power your heater, reverse cycle AC, or electric blankets without depending on the grid.
The EcoFlow DELTA Pro 3 Portable Power Station is an outstanding choice in this category. It starts with a 4096Wh capacity (expandable to 12kWh) and delivers up to 4000W of continuous AC output—ideal for powering high‑demand heating appliances. With a maximum solar input of 2600W, it can accept multiple solar panels to capture more of Australia’s winter sun. Plus, the EcoFlow app lets you monitor and adjust charging, discharge, and energy usage in real time, ensuring your heater stays on when you need it most.
EcoFlow DELTA Pro 3 Portable Power Station
Let the Sun In
Take advantage of free heating by opening curtains on sun-facing windows during the day. Close them at night to trap the warmth inside.
Lower at Night
You don’t need the same level of heat when you’re sleeping. Set your thermostat a few degrees lower overnight and use thicker bedding to stay warm. This can lead to substantial savings over time.
Conclusion
Now you know the best temperature for heaters in winter in Australia. While the recommended range of 18°C to 22°C balances comfort and efficiency, personal preferences, insulation levels, and weather conditions all play a role. To maximise warmth and minimise costs, understand your heater type and your home’s unique thermal characteristics. Combine this insight with smart practices, such as using a programmable thermostat, dressing in layers, and harnessing solar power with a portable power station and solar panels, for a cosy, energy-smart winter without the shock of rising energy bills.
FAQs
What temperature for heaters in winter in Australia?
The ideal heater temperature in an Australian winter is between 18°C and 22°C. This range balances comfort with energy efficiency, helping reduce electricity bills and environmental impact. It’s warm enough for daily living without overworking your heater, especially in insulated homes or offices with moderate winter conditions.
What temperature should a heater be set at in the winter?
Heaters should be set between 18°C and 22°C during winter. This range is recommended by the Australian government for maintaining comfort and controlling energy usage. Each degree above 20°C can increase energy consumption by up to 10%, so keeping it within range helps lower bills and increase heater lifespan.
Is 22 degrees hot for heating?
22°C is at the upper end of the recommended winter indoor temperature range. It’s not too hot but offers a comfortable environment, especially for households with elderly residents or small children. However, lowering the temperature slightly—if possible—can significantly improve energy efficiency and reduce your heating costs over time.
Is 18 degrees too cold for a house?
18°C is considered the minimum recommended temperature for indoor comfort during winter in Australia. While it may feel a bit cool for some, especially at night or in poorly insulated spaces, it’s generally safe and energy-efficient. Pair it with warm clothing and blankets for optimal comfort and cost savings.