Energy bills are rising. All of the “Big Six” have increased their tariffs and many smaller energy providers have recently gone out of business due to the rising costs of energy. It’s likely too, that more will follow. Households across the UK are facing higher bills this year resulting in many people looking for ways to improve the energy efficiency of their homes. Short of big-ticket items like new windows and heating systems, what little things can you do to help keep your home warm without breaking the bank? Read on for some low-cost and even free ways to keep that heat in and the cold out:
Open the curtains on sunny days
Whilst it may be tempting to keep curtains closed to retain heat and save on energy bills, the sun can actually help warm a room.
Draught-proof keyholes, chimneys and below doors
Simply putting a keyhole cover over an exterior keyhole can prevent draughts from coming through. Up to 15% of your home’s heat can be lost up a chimney. Block unused chimneys with special chimney blockers or you can even stuff some spare insulation from your roof up there. For cold air coming through below doors, invest in some draught-excluders such as door snakes.
Keep doors closed to save on your energy bills
Keep your internal doors closed to retain heat in a room. This is particularly important if you have turned down the radiator thermostat in rooms you don’t often use.
Open the door when you take a shower
Winter brings with it a lot of very dry air, compounded by heating. Dry air often causes our airways to also become dry, making us more susceptible to colds and flu. Opening the door to let steam out will help moisten the air and warm it.
Leave the oven door open after use
Don’t let that good heat go to waste. Let the heat from your oven escape out into the kitchen. Just be mindful of children and pets.
Bleed your radiators and add a shelf above
Make sure your radiators are working as efficiently as possible by bleeding them with a radiator key when they are off. Releasing built-up air will help them work better. Adding a shelf above will force heat downwards, particularly useful if your home has high ceilings.
Energy bills are many home owner’s biggest concern as we head into winter. We hope these tips are helpful.
Wishing you a warm and cosy winter!
Till next week!
Jo @ ColourFence
