As autumn's chill develops into winter's bite, numerous homeowners are on the hunt for practical methods to keep their homes warm without having to turn up the heating. With heating bills on the rise, energy-saving solutions are at the forefront of people's minds.

Paul Brewster, CEO of Flooring Hut, has imparted some useful advice on how to keep a home warm whilst also keeping those dreaded energy bills at bay. His useful guidance focuses on making clever choices and minor modifications to ensure your home remains cosy during the icy months.

From blocking draughts to enhancing the warmth of radiators, Brewster's tips are straightforward to implement, resulting in a more comfortable, energy-efficient home.

Put reflective insulation behind your radiators

Installing reflective foil behind your radiators will direct heat back into the room instead of letting it escape through the walls. You can use tin foil as a cost-effective solution that costs less than £2.

Add a rug or two for extra warmth

Not only does a rug add a homely touch to any room, but it can also help to trap in heat, making your room feel cosier and more comfortable. Rugs, particularly those made of wool, are a fantastic way to add extra insulation to hard surfaces such as tiles, hardwood or laminate. If your abode boasts wooden floors, it could be beneficial to invest in a thick rug to help keep the heat in and make your space more cosy. If buying a new rug isn't an option, layering blankets or even cardboard underneath can significantly boost insulation.

Sealing any gaps and cracks in solid wood flooring

Addressing any cracks and openings can cut down on draughts and cold spots, helping your home retain warmth for longer periods. Even minor gaps between floorboards or near walls can let heat slip away, but sealing these cracks is a simple and cost-effective solution. Use a wood filler that matches your flooring to ensure your home stays warm and energy-efficient throughout the winter months.

Opt for thermal curtains and draught excluders

Windows and doors are often the main offenders when it comes to heat loss. Thin curtains or blinds offer little defence against the cold, allowing warmth to escape and cold air to creep in, whereas thicker curtains will provide better insulation for your room. Another alternative is using draught excluders at the base of doors and along windowsills. Draught excluders, which can be purchased or easily made at home, are excellent at stopping cold air from coming in while keeping warm air inside.

During the day, draw back your curtains to allow the sun's natural warmth to enter, and close them in the evening to retain the heat indoors.

Ensure internal doors are shut

While it may be tempting to leave doors open between rooms for a more open feel, this can lead to heat escaping. By keeping internal doors closed, you're helping to trap warmth in each room and maintain a comfortable temperature throughout. This is especially important in rooms with carpets or rugs, where heat is more easily retained. Closing doors can also help you save energy by allowing you to focus on heating the areas that are most used, rather than trying to warm the entire house at once.