These five methods could help cut the costs of your bills this week
These five hacks could help bring down your energy bill(Image: iStockphoto)
There is no doubt Britain is becoming that little bit more chilly as October commences in full swing.
The cold weather can mean hiking the heating up, which subsequently causes higher heating bills burning a hole through your hard earned cash.
Experts at Vonhaus have shared five ways in which you can keep your home warm and cosy, while not sacrificing your monthly wage.
These hacks include radiator swaps, sealing areas and even making some smart electronic heating purchases which will save you money this year.
A spokesperson at Vonhaus, told the Express: “Small changes make a big difference. Heated throws and electric blankets have become winter staples for good reason – they’re cosy, instant, and save households money compared to heating entire rooms.
READ MORE: Best alternatives to tumble dryers to ‘slash energy bills’ this winter
“With the right habits and a few smart fixes, you can stay warm all winter without worrying about the thermostat.”
While the energy price cap is currently at £1,720, many are still facing high bills, so it may be handy to consider how you are heating your property.
Without further ado, here’s the best ways to help keep bills low this winter.
Focus on heating certain rooms
An easy way to bring your heating costs down is to focus on heating the rooms you’re using as opposed to the entire house all at once.
For many homes it’s standard that radiators all turn on at once by default, even if you’re only spending time in one room, which could be racking up your bills.
By turning down radiators in unused rooms and keeping the doors shut to keep out the cold and create some heat separation, you’re helping spaces heat up faster and maintain their heat.
Meaning, you’re comfortable where you need to be, and no unnecessary energy is being used elsewhere.
Electric heat
Depending on your system and tariff, running your central heating for just an hour could cost around 80p to £1, whereas a low‑wattage heated throw or electric blanket is just a fraction of that cost.
They work to provide warmth instantly and directly right where you need it, as opposed to heating your entire home so you can reap the benefits.
The Vonhaus spokesperson said: “On colder nights, an electric blanket does the job without heating the whole room. It warms the bed directly and shuts off once you’re asleep, which is ideal if your bedroom tends to run cold or your insulation isn’t great.”
Make sure any leaks are sealed
Even the most well-insulated of homes can still find new ways to lose heat through the smallest of gaps, typically around windows and doors.
By dealing with the strongest draughts coming through, you’ll make the biggest difference, as your room will be able to hold more heat.
Vonhaus said: “Most people focus on windows, but some of the worst draughts come from places like pet flaps, letterboxes, floorboards, and loft hatches.
“A few simple fixes, like brush strips on letterboxes, covers for pet flaps, or insulation tape around loft hatches, can stop warm air escaping without much effort or cost.”
Slightly older homes may find that their single glazing is what’s creating a draught, and in this case, heavier curtains can help to reduce the loss of heat.
By placing a curtain over a front door or another exit that’s causing a draught, you will soon notice the difference this will make to a cosy space.
Layer up
The smallest of habits can go a long way to keep you cosy and warm in the colder months, and it’s all about layering up.
Think wool socks, thermal leggings, and fleece jumpers – all of these things can help trap your body heat without having to go anywhere near the thermostat.
For those comforting moments at home on the sofa, a portable electric heater can be helpful, particularly any oil-filled models which retain heat even once they’re switched off.
This makes them perfect for using in a smaller room, and they cost far less than central heating.
Retain heat as best as you can
As energy costs continue to be on the rise, keeping warm is not all about the thermostat but more about the setup itself.
By focusing on the rooms that matter, avoiding any heat escaping and using efficient tools, you will soon feel a stark difference.
Without heating the entire house around you, you are able to stay warm and spend less as you take more control over your warmth.
Not to mention, many of these steps are reusable for winters to come or are far more affordable to replace if they become worn out.
