Winter-Proof Your Rental: Budget-Friendly Ways To Stay Warm This Winter
Adelaide winters can be surprisingly brisk, and if you're renting, making permanent changes to improve insulation isn't often on the cards.
But that doesn't mean you have to shiver through the season or fork out a fortune on your energy bill!
With a few clever tricks and smart choices, you can warm up your home and keep costs low.
Here are some budget-friendly ways to keep warm this winter – without having to crank up the heater all day.
Smart Heating Hacks: How to Keep the Warmth In
One of the biggest challenges in rental properties is heat loss.
Gaps around windows and doors can let cold air creep in and warm air slip out.
But with a few simple, budget-friendly fixes, you can keep that warmth where it belongs - inside.
1. Block the draughts
Draughts might seem small, but they can make a big difference to the temperature in your home.
· Door snakes or rolled-up towels under doors help stop cold air seeping in through gaps under doors.
· Use adhesive draught seals or weather strips around windows and door frames for extra insulation.
2. Swap to heavier curtains
If your rental has thin blinds or sheer curtains, they’re not doing much to hold in heat.
· Thermal curtains (or even just layering heavy blankets over your current curtains) help trap warmth inside.
· Closing curtains as soon as the sun sets helps to keeps the cold out and the warmth in.
3. Cover up cold floors
Tiled or timber floors might look great, but they can pull warmth right out of the room. So try adding rugs to living spaces and bedrooms for extra insulation. Not only will they reduce heat loss through the floor, but they’ll add extra warmth underfoot.
Reduce Energy Bills with Smarter Heating Choices
Keeping your home warm doesn’t have to mean blowing your budget. Here are some energy-efficient ways to make your heating work harder - without costing more.
1. Use your heater efficiently
Use your heater wisely. If your rental has a reverse-cycle air conditioner:
· For optimal efficiency, set the temperature between 18–20°C - warm enough without overworking your system.
· Also, remember to only heat the rooms you’re using. Shut doors to trap warmth in and keep the cold out.
2. Switch off inefficient appliances
Even when they're not in use, electronics can still use energy in the background. Some more than others. So to avoid the extra charges, here are some simple hacks:
· Use a power board with a switch to easily turn off multiple appliances at once.
· Unplug chargers, TVs, computers and other electronic devices overnight to avoid what is known as ‘vampire’ usage – appliances that continue to draw energy when turned off.
3. Switch to LED
Lighting can make a surprising difference to your energy usage.
· Swap out old bulbs for energy-efficient LED lights - not only do they brighten up your home, but they last longer, use less power and add a cosy glow when you choose warm-toned ones.
Cosy Up Minus the Cost
Sometimes, the easiest way to stay warm without touching the thermostat is simply to get creative with how you use your space.
1. Blankets and throws: Add an extra layer of warmth by layering up your couch or bed with thick, soft blankets. They’re not just for looks - snuggling under one can keep you toasty on cold nights without needing to run the heater.
2. Warm up with lighting: Swapping harsh, cool white lights for warm-toned LED bulbs creates a cosier, more inviting atmosphere, perfect for winter evenings.
3. Use old fashioned heat: Affordable, reusable and effective – good ol’ fashioned heat packs and hot water bottles are great for keeping you warm without using electricity. Simple and affordable, tuck one under the covers before bed or cuddle up with one on the couch.
4. Cook more at home: Winter is the perfect time to get baking or roast up a warm dinner! While your oven’s on, it’ll also add degrees (and a great aroma!) to your home. When you’re done, leave the oven door ajar (safely) to let the warmth spread.
Stay Warm, Save Money
You don’t need to suffer through winter just because you’re renting.
Nor do you need to make big changes - or spend big money - to stay warm over winter.
Whether it’s sealing up draughts, using heating efficiently or layering up for extra warmth, you can create a warm, welcoming space that doesn’t cost the earth.
Got questions about managing your rental in winter or want more seasonal tips? Connect with us today!
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DISCLAIMER: All recommendations made by We Connect Property are general in nature and not to be relied upon as legal or financial advice. To ensure accuracy, we always strongly recommend seeking independent, professional advice tailored to your specific situation before making any investment or financial decisions.