Cold weather tips on staying cosy at home without it costing the earth

So, we’ve had the rain and now we can expect a cold snap. A drop in temperatures in January will lead to snow and icy conditions in many parts of the country, say forecasters. Great for snowmen, but not so good for keeping a lid on your energy bills. How can we help?

Well, we can’t do anything about the British weather but we can offer you some handy advice on how to keep warm indoors during the chilliest weeks of winter. Staying cosy doesn’t always have to mean burning more energy. Here are a few tips to consider.

Optimise your system

• Get your boiler serviced – ensure your boiler is running efficiently by getting it serviced annually. Call us today for a service or info on our boiler cover packages
• Bleed your radiators – remove trapped air that can prevent radiators from heating up fully
• Invest in insulation – lag pipes and insulate your loft and cavity walls to reduce heat loss
• Upgrade thermostats – consider smart thermostats that allow for greater control and scheduling

Heating strategies

• Lower the thermostat setting – reduce your main thermostat setting by a degree or two. You might not notice the difference, but you’ll save energy
• Zone heating – use individual thermostats in different rooms to only heat where it’s needed
• Draft proofing – check for and seal air leaks around windows and doors to prevent draughts
• Dress for the weather – layer up warm clothing and blankets on the sofa to feel comfortable without cranking up the heating
• Utilise alternative heating sources – use gas fire logs, electric blankets, or hot water bottles for targeted warmth

Saving during peak times

• Off-peak tariffs – consider switching to an off-peak electricity tariff if your supplier offers one
• Smart scheduling – if you have a smart thermostat, program it to lower the heating during peak hours when electricity is more expensive
• Time your tasks – do laundry, cooking and showering during peak times to utilise the heat generated from appliances

Additional tips

• Close curtains at dusk – this helps trap heat in the room overnight
• Open curtains during the day – let the sun’s warmth into your home during sunny periods
• Maintain ventilation – briefly open windows to allow fresh air circulation without losing too much heat
• Don’t over-vent – avoid using extractor fans for extended periods as they can expel warm air

By implementing some of these ideas, you can better manage your central heating during cold weather, stay comfortable and potentially save on your energy bills. Remember, small adjustments can make a big difference!

Need help with your boiler or heating system? Contact us today