How to Keep Warm This Winter: The Ultimate Guide

Whether you're dealing with icy mornings or drafty bedrooms, staying warm in winter doesn't have to mean sky-high power bills. From finding the best heater for winter to clever tricks for how to keep a poorly insulated house warm, we’ve got you covered.

Our expert guide combines some of our favourite product picks with practical tips so you can keep warm, cosy and energy-efficient all season long.

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When it comes to heating your home during the winter months, a reliable heater is a must-have. Look for features like adjustable temperature settings, multiple heating options, and safety features such as tip-over and overheating protections.

The right heater can make all the difference during the colder months. When selecting a heater, think about the size of the room, how well it’s insulated, and how energy efficient the model is.

For larger living areas or open-plan homes: look for heaters with higher heat output and wide oscillation or fan-assisted distribution to spread warmth more effectively.

For bedrooms and smaller rooms: compact panel heaters, oil-filled radiators, or multi-functional units with adjustable settings and safety features are great options.

To help you find the best fit, we’ve curated a selection of top-rated heaters in the carousel below, so whether you're after quiet operation, smart features, or fast heating, there’s something for every space and budget.

If you’re still not sure which is the best fit, check out our Heater Buying Guide for expert tips on choosing the right type of heater for your needs.

If you’re wondering how to stay warm in winter without sending your energy bills soaring, finding the right temperature setting is key.

Settings for Heaters (Electric, Oil, Panel, etc.):

For most households in Australia, the ideal setting for a heater during winter is between 18°C and 22°C. This range strikes a balance between comfort and energy efficiency.

• 18°C–20°C is recommended if you’re layering clothing or using a heated throw or blanket.

• 20°C–22°C works well for larger, draftier rooms or households with children or elderly family members.

Keep in mind: every extra degree can increase your heating bill by around 10%, so try adjusting gradually to find your comfort zone.

Expert Tip: Use a heater with a thermostat or automatic temperature control to maintain a consistent temperature and reduce unnecessary energy use.

Settings for Air Conditioners (Split Systems/Reverse Cycle):

If you're using a reverse-cycle air conditioner as a heater, the ideal winter setting is slightly lower than that of a heater, typically around 20°C.

This is because air conditioners measure and distribute air differently than standard heaters. Since they use ambient air and fan distribution, they can feel warmer even at slightly lower temperature settings.

For the most energy-efficient heating:

• Set your AC to 20°C in winter

• Close doors and windows to prevent heat loss

• Clean your filters regularly for optimal performance

Expert Tip: Reverse-cycle ACs are among the most energy-efficient options for year-round heating and cooling, making them a smart long-term solution for how to heat your home in winter.

Looking to hack your energy usage and keep costs low? We’ve pulled together a whole bunch of heating hacks here but some of our favourites include:

• Get baking! Your oven doubles as a heat source when used for periods of time, making baking or cooking up a storm, a clever strategy to heat up a room cheaply and deliciously.

• Use an electric blanket at night. This will warm your bed before sleep to ensure you have a toasty night's sleep without needing to heat up your whole bedroom before you drift off for the night.

• Layer up and enjoy warm drinks. Sometimes, the old tricks are the best. Investing in some essential cosy layers, a fluffy dressing gown and some warm drinks can make all the difference in keeping you warm and cosy without the need to flick a switch.

If your home feels like an icebox, there are some simple hacks you can try to help trap warmth and keep things cosy over the colder months. 

• Seal gaps and cracks with weatherproofing tape or door snakes to block cold air.

• Shut the curtains at night to keep the heat in.

• Add rugs to your floor or use carpet runners to reduce heat loss.

These small steps make a big difference when you're figuring out how to keep a house warm in winter and should help your heating go further and last longer.

There’s nothing better than climbing into a toasty bed on a freezing night, and that’s where an electric blanket becomes your best friend.

Electric blankets are designed to provide consistent, gentle heat, making them a great energy-efficient alternative to heating an entire room. Look for models with:

• Multiple heat settings to adjust warmth to your comfort

• Auto shut-off timers for added safety

• Overheat protection

• Machine-washable materials for easy cleaning

Some modern electric blankets even feature temperature-sensing technology to adjust automatically throughout the night. If you’re looking for more great advice on choosing the perfect electric blanket why not check out our electric blanket buying guide or come and have a chat with our team in store!

Whether you’re after a single, queen, or king size, you’ll find a wide range of options below to help keep your bed warm all winter long.

If you're after the charm of a fireplace without the hassle of wood or gas, an electric fireplace is a stylish and low-maintenance way to warm up your space.

Perfect for living rooms, bedrooms, or even home offices, electric fireplaces now come in a variety of designs from classic mantel styles to sleek wall-mounted units.

When browsing options, consider:

• Flame realism (some offer 3D or LED flame effects)

• Heat settings and fan strength

• Mood lighting for ambience

• Remote or smart control features

Not only do these fireplaces add warmth, but they also become a statement piece in any room. Take a scroll below to find the perfect match for your home and aesthetic.

Reverse-cycle air conditioners are one of the most efficient ways to keep your house warm in winter, especially if you already use them for summer cooling.

To get the most out of your AC in winter:

• Switch it to heating mode (look for a sun or heat icon on your remote)

• Set the temperature to around 20°C for optimal comfort and efficiency

• Close doors and windows to keep warm air in

• Regularly clean filters to maintain performance

Explore the options below to find the right unit for your space, whether you’re upgrading or installing one for the first time.

Finally, if you’re looking for a thoughtful winter gift - whether it’s a house warming (no pun intended), birthday or just to spread some love, these cosy winter favourites are sure to please and are perfect for chilly mornings and nights!

• Heated throw blankets for snuggling on the couch

• Electric foot warmers

• Smart mugs that keep drinks warm longer

• Portable heaters for home offices or bedrooms

• Luxury robes or flannel pyjamas

Keeping warm this winter doesn't have to mean cranking up the heater 24/7. From choosing the best heaters for winter to learning how to keep a bedroom warm, Bing Lee has the products and tips you need.