22 SEP 2026
Author: Jemesa Landers
If your home feels cold even when the heater is on, warm air may be escaping through windows, ceilings, gaps around doors, unused chimneys or poorly sealed openings. Well-fitted curtains, draught stopping, insulation and safe repairs can help keep more warmth inside, so your heating can work more effectively.
You do not need to fix everything at once. Start with the easy things and decide whether you need a landlord, property manager or qualified professional to help with the bigger jobs.
Windows can be a big source of heat loss, especially in winter. Open curtains during sunny parts of the day to let warmth in, then close them before it gets dark.
Curtains work best when they fit close to the wall, overlap the window frame and reach the floor. Thermal linings, blinds or shutters can add another layer, but even simple changes to how you use curtains can help.
Warm air rises, so gaps around ceiling access hatches, pipes, wiring and older downlights can let heat move into the roof space. These areas can also create fire or electrical risks if they are sealed incorrectly.
Do not cover lights or electrical equipment unless they are rated for contact with insulation. If you are unsure, ask a qualified professional to check before making changes.
If you can feel moving air around a closed door or window, check the seals, hinges and latches. Self-adhesive draught seals and door snakes can help with small gaps.
If you rent and the draughts feel unreasonable, raise them with your landlord or property manager. Draught stopping is part of New Zealand’s healthy homes standards, so it is worth asking about anything that feels beyond a quick household fix.
An unused open chimney can let warm air escape. If the fireplace is not being used, a safe, purpose made chimney block can help reduce heat loss.
Attach a clear reminder that the block is installed, and remove it completely before lighting a fire. If the fireplace has not been used for some time, have it checked and cleaned before using it again.
Cracked sealant around wet areas can let water into places it should not go. It can also contribute to dampness, which can make a home feel colder and harder to heat.
Use a sealant that is suitable for the surface and location, or ask your landlord, property manager or a tradesperson to repair it. If there is mould or water damage, fix the source of moisture rather than just covering the visible mark.
On a cool or windy day, walk through your home and look for cold surfaces, draughts and damp areas. Start with safe, low cost fixes like closing curtains early, checking door gaps and reducing moisture. Then consider bigger improvements like insulation, glazing or professional repairs when budget, ownership and access allow.
It depends on the home. Windows, ceilings, floors, walls and air leakage can all contribute to heat loss. If you are not sure where to start, look for draughts, cold windows and rooms that cool down quickly after the heater turns off.
Minor, removable draught stop products may be fine, but check your tenancy agreement and ask before making changes that could damage the property. If gaps seem unreasonable, raise them with the landlord or property manager.
No. Homes also need intentional ventilation, and some appliances require airflow. Do not block vents, flues, extractor fans or safety openings. If you are unsure, get advice before sealing a gap.
Warm air may be escaping, cold air may be getting in, or moisture may be making the home feel harder to heat. Check curtains, draughts, ceiling gaps and damp areas before turning the heater up.
Yes. Curtains can help reduce heat loss through windows, especially when they fit close to the wall, overlap the frame and reach the floor. Closing them before dark is one of the easiest winter habits to build.
Suggested next step: Want more ways to keep your home warmer and use less power? Explore Contact’s energy saving guide, and check Tenancy Services’ healthy homes information if you rent.
For independent complaint or pricing advice, UDL, Billy & Powerswitch can help.
Read our Residential Consumer Care policy on how we'll keep you safe and connected.
