This is a guest post by Julie Moore, director of Save Energy Save Money.

As winter fast approaches and the temperature starts to drop, you might already be worrying about those impending winter energy bills. Here at Save Energy Save Money we like to think we are experts at energy conservation and as such we have put our top tips together to keep you warm this winter without adding to those pesky energy bills.

• 1.Smart Usage

There are a lot of different areas for you to focus on here; the main point would be to only have appliances turned on when you’re using them. Standby consumption can cost you up to $100 a year. Keep this cash in your pocket by turning everything off at the wall when you’re not using it.

A big energy drainer is turning heaters or A/C on in rooms you’re not using. Remember to only heat the rooms you’re in and close other rooms off to keep the heat in.

It’s nice to wake up to a warm room or come home to a warm house after braving the elements, however leaving the heating on all night and day is not very energy inefficient. Invest in timer switches and set your heating to come on just before you get home, saving you on your energy bills but not compromising on a warm room. They will pay for themselves in the first few months.

Timer switches can even come with App’s so you can turn your appliances on and off via your smart phone making your home even more energy efficient.

• 2.Dress for the Season

It’s important to remember that even at home you should be wearing your winter woollies; the more layers you dress in, the less you will rely on your heating. Dig out your socks and slippers and make sure you’re toasty from head to toe.

It might be more comfortable to sit about in shorts and t-shirt however you’re then going to rely on your heating more, cranking that thermostat and increasing those energy bills. Never underestimate the heating power of a blanket over you to beat those winter chills.Or better still treat yourself to a few new pairs to see you through winter; these socks will keep you warm while adding a splash of colour to winter!! You can find a pair for the whole family.

• 3.Celling Fans

Install celling fans if you don’t have them already, they are great for every season. Make sure the ones you purchase have a reverse function.

They will keep you cool in summer and when the cooler months hit, reverse your celling fans so they push the warm air down.

• 4.Heat your home naturally

Trim back bushes and trees that over hang your windows and let the warm winter sun heat your home naturally. Close doors and seal gaps and cracks around your home to trap that warm air in your room.

I hope these tips help you stay warm this winter and take the chill out of those energy bills!

Julie Moore director of Save Energy Save Money