8 Tips for Heating Your Home in Winter

Stay Warm When Temperatures Drop

When the winter chill sets in, keeping your home warm and cosy becomes a top priority. But staying comfortable doesn’t have to mean cranking up the heat and watching your energy bills skyrocket.

With a few smart strategies and some simple adjustments, you can heat your home efficiently while saving money in the process. Whether you’re using gas heaters, ducted systems or electric solutions, there are plenty of ways to make the most of your heating without sacrificing comfort.

From sealing drafts to using your curtains wisely, every little tip can make a noticeable difference. In this blog, we’ll share eight practical tips to help you stay warm this winter – without blowing the budget.

So, grab a cuppa, get comfy, and let’s get started on the best ways to keep your home toasty when the temperature drops.

1. Seal Up Drafts and Insulate Properly

Keeping warm air in and cold air out is key to heating your home efficiently. Drafts and poor insulation can make your heating system work harder – and send your energy bills soaring.

Here’s how to tackle the problem:

• Check for drafts around windows, doors, vents and floorboards. Use your hand to feel for cold air or try the candle test.
• Install weather stripping on doors and windows to block out sneaky cold breezes.
• Use door snakes or draft stoppers to seal the gaps under doors.
• Add or upgrade insulation in the roof, walls and floors if needed – this keeps heat from escaping.
• Close unused rooms to stop warm air from spreading too thin.
• Seal gaps in skirting boards and floor edges with flexible sealant or caulking.

By sealing up your home and improving insulation, you’ll stay warmer and use less energy all winter long.

2. Use Curtains to Your Advantage

Curtains can do more than just add style to your home – they’re a handy tool for managing indoor warmth during winter. When the sun’s out during the day, make the most of that free natural heat.

Open your curtains wide to let the sunlight stream in and warm up your rooms naturally. This passive solar heating can make a noticeable difference, especially in north-facing windows.

As the sun goes down, it’s time to switch tactics. Close your curtains before it gets dark to help trap the day’s warmth inside. Thick, lined or thermal curtains work best, acting like an extra layer of insulation between your windows and the cold night air. Even simple block-out curtains can help reduce heat loss.

If you don’t already have them, consider upgrading to energy-efficient window coverings. It’s a small change that can boost your comfort – and help lower your heating costs all winter long.

3. Maintain Your Heating System

Your heating system works hard during winter, so it’s important to keep it in top shape. Regular maintenance helps it run efficiently, keeps your home warm, and can even save you money on energy bills.

Start by checking your heater’s filter – if it’s clogged with dust, it’ll have to work harder to push warm air through. Clean or replace filters every few months, especially during peak use.

It’s also a good idea to book a professional service before winter hits. A technician can inspect your system, check for faults or leaks, and make sure everything’s running safely and efficiently.

Whether you use gas, ducted or split systems, a tune-up can extend the life of your unit and prevent breakdowns when you need heat the most.

Don’t forget to clear any obstructions around vents or radiators. Good airflow makes a big difference in heating performance and indoor comfort.

4. Install a Programmable Thermostat

A programmable thermostat is a smart way to stay warm without wasting energy. It lets you control when and how your heating runs, so your home stays comfortable while your energy bills stay low.

Here’s how it helps:

• Set heating schedules to match your daily routine – warm when you’re home, cooler when you’re not.
• Avoid overheating overnight by setting the temperature to drop slightly while you sleep.
• Preheat your home just before you wake up or return from work for instant comfort.
• Save energy automatically without needing to adjust the settings constantly.
• Choose a model with Wi-Fi for remote control via smartphone – perfect for busy households.
• Prevent forgotten heating by programming off times, especially when you’re away on holiday.

With a programmable thermostat, you get the comfort you need, exactly when you need it – no wasted heat, no guesswork.

5. Use Zoned Heating Smartly

Zoned heating is a great way to warm your home more efficiently. Instead of heating every room, you can target the spaces you use most – saving energy and money.

Here’s how to make the most of it:

• Heat only the rooms you’re using, like the lounge or bedroom, instead of the whole house.
• Close doors to unused areas to keep warm air contained and prevent heat loss.
• Use portable heaters for small spaces rather than running the main system for the whole home.
• Set different temperatures for different zones if your system allows it – warmer in living areas, cooler in bedrooms.
• Avoid over-heating rooms that already get lots of sun or natural warmth.
• Adjust heating based on time of day – for example, warm the bathroom in the morning and the living room at night.

Zoned heating keeps you comfortable where it counts, without wasting heat where you don’t need it.

6. Layer Up and Use Warm Bedding

One of the easiest ways to stay warm in winter without cranking up the heater is to layer up.

Wearing warm clothes indoors – like thermal tops, thick socks and cosy jumpers – helps your body retain heat, so you won’t need to rely as much on artificial heating. It’s a simple trick that can save you money and still keep you comfortable.

When it comes to bedtime, switch to winter-friendly bedding. Swap out your lighter doona for a thicker, warmer one or add extra blankets for extra insulation.

Flannel sheets are a great option for cold nights – they’re soft, warm and hold heat better than cotton. Hot water bottles or electric blankets can also give you that extra toasty boost without needing to heat the entire room.

By dressing warmer and choosing the right bedding, you can stay snug all winter while keeping your energy bills in check.

7. Consider Energy-Efficient Heating Options

Choosing the right heating system can make a big difference to your comfort and your energy bills. Modern, energy-efficient options can warm your home faster and more affordably.

Here’s what to look for:

• Reverse cycle air conditioners offer heating and cooling in one, and they’re highly efficient.
• Gas heaters are great for quick, consistent warmth and work well in colder climates.
• Hydronic heating systems use heated water to warm your home gently and evenly.
• Portable electric heaters can be useful in small spaces, but choose ones with thermostats and timers.
• Look for high energy star ratings – more stars mean lower running costs.
• Check for government rebates on energy-efficient systems to help offset installation costs.
• Upgrade old units – older heaters can cost more to run and may not heat effectively.

Switching to an efficient system helps you stay cosy while cutting down on power usage.

8. Use Ceiling Fans in Reverse Mode

Ceiling fans aren’t just for summer – they can actually help keep your home warmer in winter too. Most ceiling fans have a reverse switch that changes the direction of the blades.

When set to reverse (usually clockwise), the fan gently pushes warm air that rises to the ceiling back down into the room. This helps circulate heat more evenly, especially in rooms with high ceilings.

You don’t need to run the fan on high – just a low speed is enough to make a difference. The result is a more comfortable living space and a reduced need to crank up the heater, which can help lower your energy bills.

Not sure where the switch is? It’s often a small toggle on the fan base or included in the remote control. Once you switch it over for winter, you’ll enjoy better heat distribution and a cosier home without extra heating costs.

Stay Toasty and Save Money

Keeping your home warm in winter doesn’t have to mean sky-high energy bills or constantly adjusting the thermostat.

With a few smart habits – like sealing drafts, using curtains wisely, and layering up – you can make a big difference in both comfort and cost.

Maintaining your heating system, using zoned heating, and considering energy-efficient options also help you get the most out of your setup. Even small actions, like reversing your ceiling fan or setting a thermostat schedule, add up over time.

Every home is different, so choose the tips that suit your space and lifestyle best. By taking a thoughtful approach to winter heating, you’ll stay toasty without wasting energy.

So, whether you’re bracing for frosty mornings or chilly evenings, these tips will help you stay warm, cosy and in control all season long.

Please note: This information is provided for advice purposes only. Regulations differ from state to state, so please consult your local authorities or an industry professional before proceeding with any work. See our Terms & Conditions here.

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Do you have any questions about heating your home in winter? We've got the answers

Frequently Asked Questions About Home Heating

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What’s the most cost-effective way to heat my home in winter?

The most cost-effective method depends on your home and climate, but reverse cycle air conditioners are often the most energy-efficient choice for many households. Gas heating is also a good option for larger spaces or colder regions. Layering up, sealing drafts, and only heating rooms you use can also reduce overall costs.

How can I make my existing heating system more efficient?

Start by cleaning or replacing filters regularly and scheduling an annual service. Use a programmable thermostat to avoid unnecessary heating and close doors to unused rooms. Make sure your home is well-insulated and seal any drafts to stop heat from escaping.

Is it cheaper to keep the heater on all day or turn it on and off?

It’s generally more efficient to turn your heating on only when needed. Using a programmable thermostat helps maintain comfort without wasting energy by running the heater all day.