Why You’re Still Cold Even Though the Heater’s On

(And why it’s not your fault. Mostly.)

You’ve done the sensible thing. The heater’s on, the doors are shut, the slippers are deployed.

And yet — the cold lingers. Not arctic, but not exactly cosy either.

Before you start blaming your heater (or seriously considering thermal underwear), it’s worth knowing this: warming a home is as much about how you heat as it is what you heat with. A few smart adjustments can make a noticeable difference — without adding another zero to your power bill.

1. You’re heating the room — not yourself

Not all heaters work the same way. Some heat the air, others warm objects, and some do both (but only if they’re used right).

Fix it: Make sure your heater matches your room size and layout. In smaller spaces, radiant or fan heaters may be more effective than you think.

2. Heat’s getting out faster than it’s coming in

Even the best heater can’t compete with a sneaky draft. Gaps under doors, single-glazed windows, and unsealed vents let warmth escape — fast.

Fix it: Block drafts, close off unused rooms, and consider heavier curtains or rugs. Small upgrades. Big payoff.

3. Your layers aren’t working with you

You’re rugged up, sure. But if those layers are trapping moisture or letting heat slip away, they’re not doing their job.

Fix it: Focus on breathable, insulating materials like wool or fleece. Think layering with purpose, not just piling on hoodies.

4. Your heater’s not performing at its best

An underpowered or outdated unit may be using energy without delivering comfort. Filters clog. Thermostats misfire. Time takes its toll.

Fix it: Clean filters, check the age and specs of your heater, and be honest about whether it’s still up to the task.

5. You’re heating reactively, not proactively

Turning on the heat once the cold has already set in means your heater’s playing catch-up.

Fix it: Pre-warm your space in the late afternoon while the ambient temperature is still higher. It’s gentler on your power bill — and far more effective.

Summary

If your heater’s running but your toes are still frozen, don’t rush to upgrade just yet.

Comfort often comes down to timing, technique, and the quiet, unsung details — the kind that make a home feel considered, not just heated.

Head back to our Winter Sorted hub, where we're talking about winter, for real.