How to Save Money on Your Heating Bills This Winter
Let’s be honest: turning on the heating is a necessity during the colder months – nobody wants to sit shivering while watching TV or struggle to type an email with icy fingers.
With many of us likely to spend more time at home than expected as the weather gets colder, it’s important to think about staying warm without letting your heating bills skyrocket.
So, how can you cut costs on energy and heating bills? We’ve put together a few practical tips to help you save money this winter.
Heat the Person, Not the Room
It might sound obvious, but wearing warm layers can make a big difference in a chilly house. Invest in thermal base layers, cosy socks, and fleece-lined slippers to keep the chill at bay. If you work at a desk all day, try putting your feet up on a stool to keep them off the floor – often the coldest part of the house. Nowadays, you can also buy all kinds of heated clothing items, from gloves and socks to waistcoats. Pro tip: the USB-chargeable ones are usually the cheapest to run.
Block Out Pesky Draughts
Cold air sneaking in through gaps around doors, windows, and floorboards can make your home feel much colder than it actually is. Use draught excluders, insulation tape, or even rolled-up towels to seal these gaps. For an extra boost, consider installing thermal insulated curtains to trap heat indoors (they can also help keep the heat out during the summer months!). Finally, if you have a fireplace you’re not using, ensure the damper is closed to prevent warm air from escaping.
Use Your Heating Strategically
Instead of heating the entire house, focus on warming the rooms you use the most. Close doors to unused spaces and turn off radiators in those areas if necessary – just remember to turn the heating on in all rooms occasionally to avoid damp or mould. Use a timer to ensure your heating only runs when needed; small adjustments like this can lead to significant savings.
Make Your Radiators Work for You
Ensure your radiators are working as efficiently as possible. Bleed them to remove trapped air, and don’t block them with furniture or heavy curtains. At the start of winter, give the back of your radiators a good clean to remove dust or hair that could prevent them from radiating heat effectively. Finally, while their effectiveness varies, some people swear by reflective radiator panels, which help direct heat back into the room instead of losing it through walls.
Harness All Sources of Heat
Take advantage of free heat from the sun during the day by opening curtains on south-facing windows. Place dark rugs where sunlight streams in to absorb and radiate heat. Once it gets dark, close curtains and blinds to retain warmth. Baking or cooking? Leave the oven door open after use to let the heat warm your kitchen.
