Winter energy bills are coming. But the good news is there's plenty you can do to keep your costs down that don't require you to spend a lot. In fact, some of the most effective things are free! Check out these tips.

Shut the curtains

Free: More than one-third of winter heat can leak out from windows. Shutting the curtains or blinds is an easy way to stop heat escaping.

Get in the zone

Free: The ideal temperature inside is between 18 and 20 degrees, so set your heating system's thermostat in this range. For every one degree you reduce your heating thermostat, can save up to 10% on your energy use.

Low cost: If your heating system doesn't have a thermostat, a room thermometer can help you keep your home in the perfect temperature zone.

Save water = save energy = save money

Free: Hot water uses a lot of energy and accounts for a big part of your energy bill, so having shorter showers can add up to big savings over time. Staying in the shower uses up to 20 times as much energy as standing under 2 heat lamps instead.

Low cost: Swap to a water efficient shower head to further save water and money – it will pay for itself in no time.

Become a draft dodger

Low cost: If cold air is getting in, warm air is getting out. Stop heat escaping by investing in door seals, draft-proofing strips and door snakes to reduce your heating costs by up to a quarter.

Only heat the areas you need

Free: Reducing the area you need to heat by closing the doors to rooms you aren't using, such as laundries and bathrooms, means you'll use less energy to heat the rest of the house.

Low cost: Draft-proof strips and door snakes will help stop warm air leaking where it's not needed.

(Source: www.energy.gov.au )