Ten heating hacks to get you through winter on a budget

The BBC recently reported that about 15 million households have seen their energy bills rise by 12% since the beginning of October, 2021. Why? There’s been a worldwide squeeze on gas and energy supplies, so: high demand, low supply, which means an increase in price.

Energy regulator Ofgem has allowed a rise in energy price cap, which means that suppliers can charge domestic customers more. And the cap is set to rise again in April.

It’s tough to get a competitive energy deal at the moment as prices are high across the board but there are things we can do to save on bills. Most of us will quickly thing of energy-saving bulbs, closing curtains to keep warmth in and draught-proofing doors, windows and cracks but here are ten other heating hacks that you might not have thought of:

  1. Radiator panels reflect heat from your radiator away from the walls and back into the room. Typically, they’re cheap and easy to install.
  2. Time your heating – programming your boiler to turn the heating on a little earlier – such as 30 minutes before you get up in the morning – but at a lower temperature is cheaper than turning it on just as you need it at a higher temperature.
  3. Do not obstruct radiators with sofas, tables, chairs, curtains or clothing because this stops warm air from circulating in your home.
  4. One less wash a week (dishwasher or washing machine) can save you money. Don’t do half-loads, wait for a full load!
  5. Turning your thermostat down a degree could cut your heating bill by 10%, according to research.
  6. Carpets – the National Energy Foundation, floors account for as much as 10% of heat loss if they’re not insulated.
  7. A chimney balloon limits heat being lost up the chimney in decorative fireplaces. The balloons are made from a special laminate and can be bought from DIY shops.
  8. A floating shelf above a radiator will help deflect heat around the room and stop is rising up the ceiling where it will be wasted.
  9. Cover keyholes with purpose-made discs (for example) to prevent draughts.
  10. Service your boiler – not necessarily a hack BUT an old boiler is likely to be an inefficient boiler if it is not serviced or updated, even.

Remember, all the small bits add up when you’re saving.

For all your energy-related needs, contact the team at AACooper on 01689 485007 or info@aacooper.co.uk.

Sources:
BBC
Centre for Sustainable Energy
Federation of Master Builders