As winter approaches, keeping your home warm without causing a spike in your energy bills can be a challenge. Fortunately, there are simple and cost-effective ways to maintain a cosy home. Here’s how:
- Draught Excluders: These handy devices are designed to block cold air from entering your home. Place them under doors, especially those leading outside, to keep chilly draughts at bay.
- Thick Curtains: Swap out thin curtains for heavier, lined ones. They act as a barrier against cold air seeping in through windows. Make sure they’re drawn as soon as it gets dark.
- Radiator Reflectors: These reflective sheets can be placed behind radiators, especially those on external walls, to reflect heat back into the room instead of letting it escape.
- Loft Insulation: A well-insulated loft can save up to 25% of your home’s heat from escaping. Consider using at least 270mm thick insulation.
- Seal Windows and Doors: Use weatherstripping or caulk to seal any gaps or cracks around windows and door frames.
- Rug Up: Wooden or tiled floors can feel cold underfoot. Add some rugs or carpets to keep your feet warm and reduce heat loss.
- Install a Programmable Thermostat: This allows you to set your heating system to warm your home just before you wake up or return home, and reduce the temperature when you’re away or asleep.
- Service Your Boiler: A serviced boiler runs more efficiently, so it’s worth getting it checked annually.
- Double Glazing: If your budget allows, consider installing double-glazed windows. They trap a layer of air between two panes of glass, providing a barrier against the cold.
- Close Unused Rooms: If there are rooms you rarely use, keep their doors closed. This prevents cold air from circulating into the rest of the house and means you’re only heating spaces you use.
Remember, every small change helps. Implementing even a few of these suggestions can lead to noticeable savings on your energy bills and a warmer home throughout the winter.
