With cooler weather starting to creep in, keeping your home warm can be tricky, especially if you're renting or on a tight budget.
Luckily, CHOICE experts have all the tips and tricks you need to keep your house cosy and save cash.
"As we head into the cooler months it helps to do everything you can to reduce your energy use and avoid the nasty shock of a high heating bill," says heating expert Chris Barnes.
"Insulating your house well and making use of reverse cycle air conditioning are the most effective ways of heating your home, but there are also a number of much cheaper options that work well," says Barnes.
CHOICE's top tips to keep your home warm this winter:
1. Track down draughts in your home and seal them up
"A great way to seal up draughts is by using weather seal tape or draught strips, which you can buy from your local hardware store. All you have to do is stick the adhesive side to a window frame or door jamb," says Barnes.
"Door snakes are another option when it comes to sealing draughts - you can even make your own if you're the crafty type," says Barnes.
2. Close your curtains or blinds and use rugs
"Up to 40% of heating energy can be lost through windows, so keeping your curtains or blinds closed will make a big difference and keep your house warmer," says Barnes.
"If you have hard floors, cover them up with rugs. The more distance you can put between the floor and your feet, the better," says Barnes.
3. Switch your ceiling fans to reverse
"Did you know most modern ceiling fans have a reverse switch that makes the blades turn clockwise? When daylight savings ends, switch your ceiling fans to reverse, and they'll push warm air back towards the floor," says Barnes.
4. A portable electric heater is a good option if you're renting or low on cash
"For convenience and low upfront costs, portable electric heaters are your best option, especially if you're renting," says Barnes.
"However, be wary of the cost of an electric heater over its lifetime. On average, an electric heater will cost you less in the first year, but in the long run, the bills stack up. Be cautious of how long your heater is on and avoid running multiple heaters in different rooms," says Barnes.
Stock images: Getty, unless otherwise stated.
