Sophie Graham, a personal finance expert at Sunny, says:

“Autumn can be a costly time of year, with festive expenses ahead and rising energy bills adding extra pressure. Before setting your heating timers for the season, try these simple tricks so you don’t have your heating on as often.

1. Layer up your clothing

“Before turning on the heating for the whole house, focus on keeping yourself warm first. Adding extra layers, like thermal socks, tops, or leggings, helps trap body heat so you rely less on the thermostat. And don’t be shy about wearing a cosy dressing gown during the day too.”

2. Rearrange your furniture

“Make sure your sofas and chairs aren’t positioned near any cold drafts, as this is when you’ll most likely be tempted to turn the heating on. Moving your seating so they are further away from walls and more central can also make a noticeable difference. If you have a chair near the window, consider moving it near other furniture as this can create a warmer seating area.

3. Use soft furnishings to trap heat

“Investing in good-quality rugs and curtains can have a significant effect on insulation and how your home retains heat. Rugs are great with wooden or tile flooring, as they aren’t as chilly under your feet. Also, adding layers like cushions and throws not only makes your room feel cosy, but they also keep you feeling warmer when relaxing in front of the television.

4. Make the most of natural light

“While the days are shorter towards the end of the year, you can still maximise the exposure of natural light in the home. From the moment the sun rises, open all curtains and blinds so that the daylight can naturally heat the home. Then, in the evening, close all windows and blinds to keep that heat in. This simple daily routine costs nothing but can make a measurable difference to your home’s temperature.

5. Keep active 

“Light activities around the home, such as cleaning, tidying, and cooking, can improve circulation. Even short bursts of exercise, like a ten-minute workout, can help get your blood pumping, keeping you warmer. Also, a brisk walk outdoors can make returning inside feel noticeably warmer and more comfortable.

6. Keep doors closed 

“By shutting doors to rooms you’re not using, you prevent heat from escaping and concentrate warmth where you need it most. It’s important to bear this in mind if you have a hallway, which can act as a cold corridor. You want to ensure that the living spaces contain the heat, so shut the doors of the rooms you want to keep warm also.

7. Draught-proof your home 

“Small gaps around windows, doors, or even letterboxes can let a surprising amount of cold air in. Simple draught excluders, weather stripping, or even rolled-up towels can block these gaps and help keep the warmth inside. Sometimes it can be difficult to work out where a draft is coming from, so you can also walk around the cooler area with a candle to see if the flame flickers to identify where you need to block the draft.

8. Use hot water bottles or heat pads

“Instead of turning on the heating, a hot water bottle or microwaveable heat pack can provide instant warmth and comfort. Place it on your lap while working from home or relaxing on the sofa. At bedtime, slip the hot water bottle between your sheets about 15 minutes before getting in; you’ll be greeted by a cosy, pre-warmed bed that makes the cold nights much more bearable.

9. Leave the oven door open

“After you’ve finished using the oven, safely keep the oven door open to let the heat escape to the room. This is particularly useful if you’re dining in the kitchen area, as it won’t require you to turn on the heating. If you use this method, just make sure there are no babies or pets around.

For more money-saving advice and personal finance tips, visit Sunny.co.uk.