There’s a definite chill in the air – but is it possible to heat your home without an astronomical energy bill at the end of the month? Here are some top tips to help you stay warm this winter
Winter is on the way, and as the temperature drops, the temptation to turn up the thermostat rises – but that can lead to a nasty shock when the energy bill arrives.
Thankfully, there are a number of ways to help keep your home warm without breaking the bank. With a few simple adjustments, you can stay cost and reduce your financial outgoing. Here are some top tips to get you through the chill.
Heating the right places at the right times
Don’t waste heat unnecessarily. Turn down radiators in the rooms you aren’t using to conserve energy and save money. You can also set a timer on your heating, to ensure your home is only being heated when you need it.
Think about the times when you don’t need your heating to be on; if you’re out during the day, set the heating to be off or at the setback temperature until you’re due to come home.
It takes time for your home to warm up and cool down so try turning the heating on about 30 minutes before you need it. You should also turn it off 30 minutes before you’ll stop needing it.
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Draught-proof windows and doors
Homes lose heat through draughts around doors and windows, gaps around the floor or through the chimney. Draught-proofing your windows and doors, and blocking cracks in floors and skirting boards, can save around £80 a year on heating bills, bestheating.com advises.
Other simple draft proofing measures – such as closing curtains, your letterbox and keyhole covers, and chimney balloons – can also help keep the warmth in and cold out.
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Optimise your radiators
Maintain your radiators to make sure you’re getting maximum heat and not wasting your money. If you notice cold spots, bleed your radiator to release trapped air and improve performance.
You can also try radiator reflectors which are easy to install and will bounce heat back into the room instead of letting it escape.
And make sure you avoid blocking radiators. Placing furniture in front of them can significantly reduce heat output, meaning your system has to work harder to warm the room.
Lower your thermostat slightly
Lowering your thermostat by 1 degree can save about 10% on your energy bill – a simple and quick way to reduce energy consumption and you’re unlikely to feel too much of a difference in the temperature of your home.
Layer up
Instead of immediately reaching for the thermostat dial, try wearing some extra layers of clothing or snuggling up under a blanket when you’re relaxing in the evening.
