The stormy weather we've seen over the last couple of days and the rising cost of living has left many people stressing about their bills coming in to the winter months.
Temperatures dropping, the expensive nature of oil, gas and petrol as well as spiking prices in supermarkets mean that we're all trying to cut corners here and there to add a bit of extra cash in our pockets.
On top of all that, we're sure to see insect infestations as mating season arrives for the likes of spiders and ants.
Luckily for you, via our friends at the Liverpool Echo, we now have seven expert tips to keeping your rooms nice and toasty and your house ready for the winter.
Use baby oil on your fireplace
Fires will have been lit across the island already during these colder nights, but you should probably make sure that your stove or fireplace is clean before you light up.
If you haven't used it in months, break out the dustpan and brush or even the hoover and get any dirt or dust off.
After that, sprinkle some baby oil on to a cloth and wipe it into the fireplace to make it look spectacular.
Tape can fix window draughts
It can get bitterly cold in Ireland in winter, particularly in the mornings.
Closing all doors and windows can keep the heat in your home, but sometimes draughts from outside can still find their way in.
If you're still feeling the nip even with the doors and windows shut, inspect them - and seal any gaps you find with tape.
Too much stuff in the gutters? Head for the kitchen
Your gutters are essential in protecting your home from water damage and preventing the structure of your home from cracking.
Cleaning debris from your gutters and ensuring a smooth flow of water through pipes is easier than you think it is. To scoop any leaves or dirt from your gutters, all you need is a handy kitchen spatula.
Avoid insects by making things a bit minty
Every day pests like spiders and mice often sneak into homes to shield themselves from the colder climate, and even for mating season.
Placing a bag of fresh mint acts as a natural insect repellent for spiders, ants, flies and even mice.
Alternatively, you can chop up the mint and add it to boiling water. Once the mixture cools down, strain it and pour it into a spray bottle. Then spray in all the hard-to-reach spots around your home where spiders are commonly found.
Move the couch one foot away from radiators
Having your couch against radiators can actually increase your energy bills in the colder months.
When blocked by furniture, the heat from the radiator finds it harder to circulate throughout the room. This in turn causes you to increase the temperature of your heating, leading to higher bills.
Save money on your heating bills by moving your sofas at least a food away from radiators.
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