As the days get colder and the evenings draw in, keeping your home warm can become a priority. But before reaching for the thermostat, there are several simple things you can do to help your home retain more of the heat it already has.

1. Close your curtains when it gets dark

Curtains and blinds can provide an extra layer between your home and the cold outside. Open them during the day to make the most of natural sunlight, then close them as the temperature drops in the evening.

2. Stop draughts

Cold air coming through gaps around doors and windows can make a room feel much colder. Check for obvious draughts around window frames, doors and letterboxes, and consider using draught excluders where appropriate.

3. Make the most of your radiators

Avoid placing large pieces of furniture directly in front of radiators, as this can prevent warm air from circulating around the room. Keeping radiators clear can help make the most of the heat they produce.

4. Keep doors closed

Closing doors between rooms can help keep warmer air where you need it, particularly in rooms that aren’t being used. It can also help prevent heat escaping into colder areas of the house.

5. Check your windows

Double glazing can make a significant difference to heat retention, but even with modern windows it’s worth checking that seals are in good condition and that windows close properly.

6. Don’t forget your loft

Heat rises, so a well-insulated loft can help reduce heat loss through the roof. If you’re unsure about the insulation in your home, it may be worth checking whether it meets current recommendations.

7. Use rugs and soft furnishings

Hard floors can feel particularly cold during winter. Rugs, curtains, blankets and other soft furnishings can make rooms feel warmer and more comfortable, even without changing the temperature.

8. Let the sunlight in

On bright winter days, open curtains and blinds during daylight hours. Natural sunlight can help warm rooms before you close everything up again in the evening.

9. Keep an eye on your energy efficiency

Your Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) can give you useful information about how efficiently your home uses energy, along with recommendations for improvements that could help.

A warmer home doesn’t always mean a higher thermostat

Small changes around the home can help reduce heat loss and make rooms feel more comfortable throughout the colder months.

Before turning the heating up, take a look at where your home might be losing heat. A few simple changes could make a noticeable difference.