How to stay warm while keeping home heating costs low

More cold weather is on the way this New Year, but there are ways you can keep snug in your home without piling up the costs.

Heating up the home is a major expense and according to the Office for National Statistics is one of the largest outlays in most households.

But there are simple steps you can take to stay warm and save money.

Firstly, check the thermostat isn't unnecessarily high as pounds can be saved with each degree lower that is set.

Wear warm clothing in the house. No need to keep a coat on but a couple of layers including a jumper will make a difference to your comfort without turning up the heat.

Placing tin foil behind radiators is an old trick that can be highly effective. Hot air is reflected back in to the room instead of being lost through cold walls or windows.

Don't block radiators with furniture or other items and prevent the heat from spreading in to rooms.

When cooking, leave the warm oven door open once you have finished and switched off to allow the heat to seep out and heat the kitchen.

Close curtains when you can to lock heat in and prevent it escaping through windows.

Check the state of walls, floors and beneath doors to see if heat is leaking out through cracks that could be blocked easily or sealed with tape.

Use hot water bottles or similar, both in bed or while sitting for long periods, as they are effective heaters.

Keep your home as cosy as you can with available covers and rugs, and cushions.

Close doors to keep heated rooms wa