Before you turn on the power-hungry heater this winter, have you considered these environmentally friendly ways to keep your home cosy this winter?

Aspect

A home with a northerly aspect is easier to keep warm. As the sun arcs from east to west, a home that faces north will be effortlessly warmed all day.

Blinds

Open blinds in the morning, particularly on north-facing windows, to allow the light and warm sunshine inside.

Close blinds as soon as the sun goes down to stop the cold night air from seeping through the windows.

Windows

Keep windows shut to avoid cold drafts.

Doors

Keep unused rooms closed, and doors to the outside closed too.

Seals

Make sure doors and windows are well sealed. If needed, place barriers across the bottom of doors to prevent cold air blowing in underneath.

Hot water bottles

Hot water bottles are more environmentally friendly than electric blankets.  

Insulation

Insulation in the roof is one of the best ways to keep your home warm. 

Heating

If you do need to turn on a heater, close off an area of your home and just heat that area, rather than trying to heat the whole house.

Use a heater with a thermostat that will maintain your home at a constant temperature, or a timer that will only turn the heater on when it's most needed and automatically turn it off when it's not.

Instal solar panels

Solar panels are the most energy efficient way to heat your home, and have become more affordable to instal.

Still cold?

If you're still cold, try jogging on the spot.

Read more about sustainability in the home:

How to keep your home cool as half the nation swelters

First apartment in eco-friendly The Commons sells for $55,000 over reserve

Finkel Review: A vital next step in the national energy debate