How to keep your home warm without adjusting the thermostat
Staying warm without spending the earth on your gas and electricity is a delicate balancing act in autumn and winter – especially when it feels like tariffs are always on the rise.
The good news is, there’s lots you can do to help keep your home warm and well insulated before turning up the dial on the thermostat.
Here’s a few to keep in mind as the temperature drops this autumn.
Bleed the radiators
Now is the time to bleed the radiators and make sure they’re working to their full capacity. Radiators that run properly will help you get the most out of your heating system.
Block draughts
Preventing draughts will help ensure you don’t lose the heat around your home. Make sure you have draught excluders at doors and draw curtains as soon as the sun goes down to help prevent heat loss from windows. If you have thin curtains, consider replacing them with thicker, heavier curtains which will block the cold more effectively. Don’t forget to check things like keyholes and letterboxes, too.
Set the timer
Setting a timer on your heating will make sure your home is consistently warm and you’re reducing the amount of energy you use. Setting it to go on just before you wake up in the morning and for a few hours from late afternoon to evening might be all it takes to keep you warm and comfortable throughout the winter.
Adjust the radiators
Keep the radiators turned low or off on any rooms that are not regularly in use. Keep doors and windows shut in these rooms, too, so the draught doesn’t spread.
Use tin foil
Tin foil is a simple solution to prevent heat loss from radiators, especially those attached to external walls. Place a layer of tin foil behind the radiator to help prevent heat disappearing through the wall. Good quality kitchen foil will work, but you can also buy special foil for less than ten pounds.
Let the sun in
Even in the winter, the sun can be a powerful – and free – way to help heat up your home. Open window shades and curtains during the day to let sunlight in, and close them again at night.
Place film over windows
If you don’t have double glazing, you can purchase cling film that will have a similar effect. All you need to do is attach the film to the window and fix it in place using a hair dryer – you can cover all the windows your home for just over a tenner.
Try a chimney balloon
If you have a fireplace you could be losing a lot of heat in winter. A chimney balloon is a quick and simple solution – it will shut out cold air and prevent heat escaping, and can be removed should you want to light a fire.
Cover bare floorboards
If you have hardwood floors throughout the house, consider putting a rug down to help insulate and prevent heat loss. In a pinch, blankets can work well too, and have the added bonus of being warm underfoot when you step out of bed in the morning.
What are your tips for keeping your home warm?
Rachel - Silversurfers Assistant Editor
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