Now that the clocks have gone back and the days are getting shorter, property management experts Quintessentially Home gives advice on how to get your home ready for the inevitable winter chill.

Penny Mosgrove, CEO of Quintessentially Estates and Quintessentially Home, said: “From energy saving to cosy interiors, relatively small changes in the home can make a big difference to your wellbeing by creating a warm and welcoming environment to return to during the winter months. Equally, with rising energy prices, it is all the more important to try to keep your bills down.

“When preparing for the winter, it is essential to consider how your senses are impacted by the change in season and then take steps to counter these effects, from atmospheric lighting and warming scents to temperature control and tasty treats.”

1. Deal with drafts: insulating attics and draft proofing windows and doors will ensure you can enjoy comfortable indoor temperatures year-round, as well as making the home more economical.  Gaps can be sealed with self-adhesive draft strips or, for a quick fix, under door drafts can be remedied with a fabric draft excluder.
2. Keep it consistent: set your thermostat at a consistent temperature level such as 22̊C; this will avoid the temptation of switching the heating on for one big blast of heat.  It is also worth checking your insurance policy to make sure you are protected for winter emergencies.
3. Winter maintenance: arrange for someone to clean the leaves and debris out of your gutters to prevent drainage problems and, whilst they’re up there, ask them to check for broken or loose roof tiles and make sure the TV aerial is secure.
4. Fire lighters: there is nothing quite like sitting in front of a roaring fire, so if you have an open or gas fire place, ensure the flue is clear and arrange for a chimney sweep to come once a year.
5. Security measures: if you are leaving your property unoccupied, invest in some Time Guard electronic switches so that yours lights still go on and off each day. Don’t advertise what you got for Christmas by leaving the boxes on the street.
6. Let there be light: a cosy interior will undoubtedly take the chill out of the winter season and warm under-lighting can go a long way towards creating an inviting ambience; try fitting dimmer switches to soften the lighting or some strategically placed lamps also does the trick.  Remember that replacing just one traditional bulb with an energy saving light bulb can save you on average £3 a year.
7. Set the tone: as well as the lighting, the mood of a room is primarily set by the colour palette and hues of furnishings; the addition of burnt orange, red and plumb coloured accessories help to add warmth to a room.
8. Snuggle up: appeal to your sense of touch with sumptuous textures and fabrics; curling up on the sofa with a throw works wonders to dampen the winter blues.
9. Heaven scent: as the temperatures drop, swap zesty summer scents for richer winter fragrances. Scented candles and reed diffusers, particularly ones with warming notes such as cinnamon, clove and all spice, will not only make your home smell gorgeous, but will also get everyone in a festive spirit.
10. Stock up on life’s little luxuries: winter is the prime time for cosy nights in fuelled by home cooked comfort food and indulgent hot drinks. Quintessentially Home recommends stocking up on Neuhaus’ Belgian Luxury Hot Chocolate, which will warm even the coldest of cockles.

The above is a guest post form Quintessentially Home.