There’s no doubt about it—energy costs have climbed, and keeping your home warm during a chilly Tasmanian winter can feel like a balancing act between comfort and cost. Even in newer homes, it’s not always easy to strike the right temperature without seeing your energy bill climb too.

So what can you do to stay warm and save?

We’ve rounded up ten practical, low-cost tips to help you stay cosy this winter—and maybe even save a few dollars on your next energy bill.

D.I.Y heat trap. There’s wisdom in your mum’s habit of closing the curtains before the sun sets. Sunlight brings free warmth—so throw open the blinds during the day, and close them before it gets dark to keep that heat in. It’s an easy win!
Get creative with window insulation Can’t install double glazing? No problem. Heavy curtains can make a big difference, but for renters or budget-conscious households, try this: apply a layer of bubble wrap to your windows. It’s not glamorous, but it works surprisingly well as a temporary insulator.
Heat the rooms you use most Rather than heating the entire house, focus on the areas where you spend the most time. Shut doors to unused rooms to keep the warmth where you need it. Zoned heating (or even closing vents in unused spaces) can really add up to savings.
Dress for the season. Are you guilty of swanning about the house in a t-shirt and shorts in the middle of winter? If that’s you, why not pop on a few more layers of clothing, turn the thermostat down and save a few dollars.
Set your thermostat wisely Keeping your heater set between 18–20°C is generally recommended for both comfort and efficiency. If you’re still a bit chilly, reach for a throw blanket—or cuddle up with a pet or partner for some bonus warmth.
Keep showers short and sweet Long, hot showers feel great when it’s cold—but hot water use can seriously affect your energy bill. Try cutting your shower time down to under four minutes. A waterproof timer in the bathroom can help.
Heat packs for the win Microwaveable heat packs aren’t just for sore muscles—they’re a great way to stay warm while reading, working, or relaxing on the couch. Just be sure to follow safety instructions to avoid overheating them.
Stop the draughts Older homes can be sneaky heat-losers thanks to gaps under doors, around windows, and through floorboards. Use draught stoppers (those “door snakes” your grandparents swore by), or even rolled-up towels to block cold air from creeping in. Just make sure you’re not blocking any essential vents for airflow.
Check your heater’s health A well-maintained heater runs more efficiently. Clean filters regularly, and consider getting it serviced each year. That small effort could save you big on your bill.
Move your body One of the best ways to warm up? Get moving. Whether it’s pacing during phone calls, doing chores, or going for a brisk walk, staying active helps your body warm itself—and a bit of sunshine gives your mood (and Vitamin D levels) a boost too.

Bonus tip: If you’re working from home or spending time in one spot, consider using a heated throw, electric blanket, or heated rug. They’re far more efficient than running a heater all day—and they feel like a warm hug!

With just a few small changes, you can stay warm and comfortable this winter—without dreading your next power bill.

Please note this information is general in nature and does not take into account your personal circumstances or objectives. You should consider this before acting on any of the information contained.