With the chill of winter finally making its way into our homes, you may be thiniking about the best ways to heat your home, so here are some home heating tips to help you avoid using more energy than you need to - saving a few dollars in the process.

Don't set your heating thermostat to a higher temperature than required. Selecting a higher than needed temperature in an effort to warm a room extra fast doesn't work - set the temperature you want and let the heating system do the rest.

Don't neglect maintenance of your heating systems.  For your heat pump remove the filter from the indoor unit and give it a good vacuum every three months. Then inspect the outdoor unit to ensure it hasn't become overgrown and its air intake hasn't become clogged with debris.

Plug-in electric resistance heaters cost much more to run than fixed forms of heating such as wood burners, heat pumps, natural gas fires or whole-home central heating systems. But if you're using portable electric heaters to heat living areas get one with a fan.

Don't forget about your curtains and blinds.  Blinds, shades and curtains can help you prevent cold air from seeping into your house. Think of them as another layer of insulation. Opening your curtains when the sun is out during the daytime can also allow heat to enter your home.

Damp air takes more energy to heat than dry air, so address any sources of dampness in your home. Fix any drainage, guttering, downpipe or plumbing problems, and air the home to get rid of shower steam etc.

Don't ignoring drafts. Drafts that let cold air into your home can increase your home heating needs.  Attics, chimneys and windows are common places for drafts. Check your house and seal all drafts properly to prevent cold air from entering your home.

Before installing a new form of heating, make sure you have adequate insulation. Insulate the roof first, and then look at underfloor insulation.  Don't forget windows as well.