Energy saving tips to help you reduce your energy bills at home in winter in the UK
As winter’s chilly embrace settles in, many of us find ourselves reaching for the thermostat to ward off the cold. However, keeping your home cozy doesn’t have to come at the cost of a skyrocketing energy bill. By adopting a few smart strategies for Energy Saving, you can stay warm and save on energy costs during the colder months. Here are 20 winter energy saving tips to help you make the most of the season in the UK or Other Cold Places.
You can also read How to Set Up Bills When Renting a House
20 winter energy saving tips
1. Turn Down by One Degree
Lowering your thermostat by just one degree can lead to significant energy savings over time. You might not even notice the difference in comfort, but your wallet will appreciate it.
2. Wear a Jumper
One of the simplest ways to stay warm without cranking up the heat is to wear warm clothing indoors. A cozy jumper (sweater) can make a world of difference.
3. Get Cavity Wall Insulation
Insulating your home’s cavity walls helps to keep the cold out and the warmth in. It’s a one-time investment that can yield substantial long-term savings.
4. Get Loft Insulation
Proper loft insulation is essential for preventing heat from escaping through the roof. It’s a highly effective way to maintain a comfortable temperature indoors.
5. Get an App
Numerous smartphone apps allow you to control your heating remotely. You can adjust the temperature based on your schedule, ensuring your home is warm when you need it.
6. Set Different Temperatures in Each Room
If you have zone heating, set different temperatures for each room. You can reduce heat in less frequently used areas and focus warmth where it’s needed most.
7. Programme Your Heating
Use a programmable thermostat to create a heating schedule that aligns with your daily routine. This prevents unnecessary heating when you’re not home or when you’re asleep.
8. Buy Radiator Foil
Radiator foil reflects heat back into the room rather than letting it escape through the wall. It’s a cost-effective way to make your heating system more efficient.
9. Buy a Radiator Booster
A radiator booster fan can help distribute warm air more evenly throughout the room, reducing the need to turn up the heat.
10. Don’t Block Your Radiators
Avoid placing furniture or curtains in front of radiators. This obstructs the heat flow and reduces the effectiveness of your heating system.
11. Get a Radiator Shelf
Installing a shelf above your radiator can direct heat into the room rather than letting it rise to the ceiling.
12. Invest in a Brass Radiator Key
A brass radiator key is essential for bleeding radiators. Trapped air can reduce their efficiency, so ensure they’re working at their best.
13. Start TRVs Off at Low Temperatures
Thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs) allow you to set different temperatures in each room. Begin with low settings and gradually increase until you’re comfortable.
14. Remember Holiday Heating
When you’re away from home during the holidays, lower the thermostat to save energy. Some heating systems have a vacation mode for this purpose.
15. Block Any Draughts
Seal any gaps or draughts around windows and doors with weatherstripping or draught excluders to keep the cold air out.
16. Shut Your Doors
Closing doors to unused rooms can help contain heat in the areas you’re occupying, making your heating system more efficient.
17. Get Double or Triple Glazing
Investing in double or triple-glazing for your windows can significantly improve insulation, reducing heat loss.
18. Open and Close Your Curtains
During the day, open curtains to let in sunlight and close them at night to trap heat. Consider using thermal curtains for added insulation.
19. Switch Your Supplier
Regularly review your energy supplier and consider switching to one offering more competitive rates or greener energy options.
20. Do a Free Home Energy Check
Many energy companies offer free home energy checks. Take advantage of these services to identify areas where you can further improve energy efficiency.
By implementing these winter energy-saving tips, you can keep your home warm and comfortable while reducing your energy consumption and lowering your heating bills. These measures not only benefit your wallet but also contribute to a more sustainable and eco-friendly lifestyle. Stay cozy, save energy, and enjoy the winter season to the fullest.
