How to Keep a House Warm in the Winter?
Winter in Australia can bring unexpectedly cold days and nights, especially in southern states. Yet, many Australian homes aren't designed to retain heat. Instead of cranking up the heater and watching your energy bill soar, there are natural, practical ways to keep your house warm and cozy without compromising comfort or efficiency.
These tips are based on recommendations from Australian energy experts and insulation specialists and are ideal for anyone looking to learn how to keep home warm in winter using cost-effective and eco-conscious approaches.
12 Effective Ways to Keep a House Warm in the Winter
Staying warm in winter doesn’t have to mean higher energy bills. With a few smart changes and natural methods, you can keep your home cozy and efficient. Here are 12 practical ways to help if you're trying to figure out how to keep the house warm during winter.
1. Seal Drafts and Gaps
A surprising amount of heat escapes through tiny gaps under doors, around windows, or through exhaust fans. Use rubber weather seals or foam tape to plug these draughts. Door snakes, or draught excluders, are inexpensive fixes that help stop cold air from creeping in. This simple adjustment can reduce heat loss by up to 25%.
2. Hang Heavy, Insulated Curtains
Windows can leak up to 40% of your indoor heat. Swap lightweight curtains for thick, thermally lined ones that extend well past the bottom and sides of the window frame. Close them as soon as the sun goes down to trap warmth inside.
3. Use Rugs to Cover Cold Floors
If you have hardwood, tile, or laminate floors, cover them with thick rugs or mats. These don’t just add warmth underfoot but also reduce heat loss through the floorboards, especially in older homes with poor subfloor insulation.
4. Harness Natural Sunlight
Let the sun do the work during the day. Open blinds and curtains in sun-facing rooms to allow sunlight to warm your home naturally. Just don’t forget to close them before it gets dark to keep the warmth in.
5. Move Furniture Away from Cold Zones
Position sofas and chairs away from cold external walls and windows. Move them closer to internal walls or into direct sunlight. Blocking vents or sitting near windows can make you feel colder than you really are.
6. Install Door Seals and Curtains on External Doors
External doors often leak warmth. Install adhesive door seals around frames and consider hanging a thick curtain or door drape inside, especially for old or glass-panelled doors. This technique reduces heat loss every time the door is opened.
7. Reverse Your Ceiling Fans
Most modern ceiling fans have a reverse switch. In winter, use the fan on low in reverse mode to push warm air (which naturally rises) back down. This helps keep the whole room warmer without increasing your heating bill.
8. Shut Doors to Unused Rooms
Isolate the rooms you’re not using to concentrate heat where it’s needed most. Closing internal doors stops heat from leaking into rarely used areas like spare bedrooms or storage spaces.
9. Use Reflective Foil Behind Radiators or Heaters
If you use fixed heaters along walls, placing reflective foil (such as specialist radiator foil or even aluminium foil in a pinch) behind the unit helps bounce heat back into the room rather than losing it through the wall.
10. Improve Ceiling and Wall Insulation
One of the most impactful long-term solutions is upgrading your insulation. Quality insulation in your ceiling and walls can reduce heat loss by up to 45%. It keeps your home warmer in winter and cooler in summer, saving energy year-round.
11. Install an Energy-Efficient Heating System
If you need to use a heater, opt for energy-efficient solutions like reverse-cycle air conditioners (heat pumps). These use far less power than standard electric heaters and work well in most Australian climates.
Eco Tip: Consider choosing models with high energy ratings and smart thermostats to regulate temperature and avoid overheating.
12. Layer Up You and Your Home
Don’t overlook the basics: dress in warm layers, use throws and blankets in living areas, and invest in thermal bed linen or electric blankets (used safely). Your body heat is free, so make the most of it.
Extra Safety Tips for House Warmth
While keeping your home warm is essential, it’s just as important to do so safely. Here are a few simple tips to help you heat your space with care this winter.
Check for Carbon Monoxide
If you use gas heating, have your system professionally serviced and properly vented every year. Carbon monoxide is a silent danger, so install alarms near bedrooms for added safety and test them regularly.
Use Electric Blankets Responsibly
Only use electric blankets to warm the bed before sleeping and never leave them on overnight. Check for frayed cords or damage, and always follow the safety instructions on the label.
Ventilate During the Day
Let in fresh air by opening windows for 15–30 minutes daily, even on cold days. This helps reduce dampness, prevents mould from growing, and keeps indoor air healthy.
Keep Heat Sources Safe
Place portable heaters on flat surfaces and keep them away from curtains, bedding, or furniture. Never leave heaters on when you're out or asleep.
Check Smoke Alarms
Make sure all smoke alarms work properly and have working batteries. Test them monthly and replace batteries once a year for peace of mind.
Use Backup Power Wisely
A portable power station can provide essential energy during blackouts, especially in winter. It can safely run lights, electric blankets, Wi-Fi, and more.
The EcoFlow DELTA Pro 3 is a good option, offering 4000W output and up to 12kWh capacity, enough to power most household appliances with ease. It runs quietly at just 30 dB, charges to 80% in only 50 minutes, and supports multiple charging methods. With a plug-and-play setup, it’s a reliable backup for home energy emergencies.
For continuous protection, consider a UPS power supply for home use to keep critical devices running without interruption.
EcoFlow DELTA Pro 3 Portable Power Station
Conclusion
Keeping warm in winter doesn’t have to mean high costs or wasteful heating. By using natural sunlight, reducing draughts, insulating properly, and heating smartly, you can create a comfortable, cosy home even during the coldest Australian nights. If you're wondering how to keep a house warm in the winter, start with the simple steps today, and you’ll feel the difference tomorrow.
FAQs
How can I make my house warmer in the winter?
Sealing drafts around windows, doors, and vents is the first step—use caulk or weatherstripping to block cold air. Install thick, thermal‑lined curtains that fall below the window sill to trap heat inside by up to 40 %. Layer area rugs over bare floors, especially hardwood or tile, to reduce heat loss and add comfort underfoot. Finally, let natural sunlight in during the day and close curtains at dusk to retain warmth where it’s most needed.
What is the healthiest temperature to keep your house in the winter?
The World Health Organization recommends maintaining at least 18 °C for healthy adults to prevent respiratory and cardiovascular strain. For elderly or unwell individuals, 20–21 °C provides optimal thermal comfort and helps reduce the risk of hypothermia and related health issues. Using a programmable thermostat can help maintain these levels efficiently, reducing energy waste while supporting well‑being.
How to make a house warmer in Australia?
Australian homes often lack adequate insulation—start by adding ceiling and wall insulation using rigid foam boards or bulk batts to improve R‑values in climate‑appropriate zones. Seal gaps in doors and windows with semi‑permanent seal tapes or brush draft stoppers to block cold drafts. Invest in heavy curtains or thermal blinds, and use efficient, reverse‑cycle heaters to circulate warm air cost‑effectively. These measures together create a more thermally sealed envelope suited to Australia’s unique housing challenges.