Top five ways to get your home winter ready

As the temperatures start to drop and many of us look to turn the heaters on, our finances can take a big hit. But it doesn’t have to be that way. To avoid getting a rude shock on your next gas and electricity bill here are the 5 best ways to get your home ready for the cooler months.

1. Insulate your windows
   One of the best ways to keep your room nice and cosy is to protect your windows. If you are already looking into home improvement ideas then you might want to add extra insulation in the walls or get thicker glass for the window panes. If that isn’t an option for you, one of the cheapest ways is to simply use thick curtains in front of your windows. This will stop you losing as much heat. You will also want to check that there aren’t any cracks or grooves between the window and windowsill through which any heat can escape. If you do find any, an easy do it yourself fix is to pick up some cheap caulking from Bunnings; you can easily fill the gaps with it yourself. For the gaps under your door simply grab a door snake to stop the draft. 

2. Clear your drains and gutters
   Before the big winter storms hit make sure you clean out your drains and gutters. A build-up of fallen leaves will cause water to over flow and could damage your home. No one likes a soggy lawn or water pooling around an entrance. Prevention and maintenance are some of the best home improvement ideas that will ensure you don’t have to do this later in the rain. 

3. Light your way
   With the increase in darkness you may want to pick up a few cheap energy efficient lights for your walkway, this could be LED or solar powered lights or even both. Making sure you can see your way in the dark will stop any bumps in the night. It can also help to deter any theft and vandalism. If you can, splurge on lights that have a timer or sensor so the lights will always be on when you need them. 

4. Get out the blankets, slippers and onesies
   You can put away the budgie smugglers; you won’t need those for a while. Instead, grab the winter quilt and throw on the flannel sheets. You’ll be ready for when you are cold. Simply hop under the doona instead of turning up the heat. Around the house grab a flannel robe or some fun animal onesies and have a pyjama party every night. You actually lose the most heat through your head so a hooded onesie or robe could keep you warmer than you think.

5. Rebates and savings
   You may be eligible for energy rebates and savings; check your local government website for more information. There may also be some benefits through your electricity provider or times when heat is more expensive or less so. Contact them for more information.

Safe Financial offers financial relief when you need it most. If you find you are in a bind and can’t cover an emergency winter expense, we are always here to help. Check out our small loans page for more information. And remember to use your blankets, clear the gutters, insulate your windows and have a happy and healthy winter.