Many of us will be on a mission to keep warm on a budget this winter. Research suggests that there are six areas where you are likely to lose the most heat in your home:

• Cracks in the walls, windows and doors (38% of heat is lost)
• Basement walls and floors (21%)
• Framed walls (17%)
• Poorly insulated windows (16%)
• Ceilings (5%)
• Exterior doors (3%).

With this in mind, there are some practical, cost-effective ways to limit drafts and cold from getting into our homes without investing in massive renovations, like new windows, doors and floors.

• Block your chimney – there are various draught excluders that do this or you could use a waterproof pillow, or inflatable chimney balloon.
• Purchase a door snake – these come in all shapes and sizes and are great for keeping draughts from coming in under your door.
• Insulate your letterbox – try insulating film to trap the heat inside.
• Rearrange your furniture – so as not to block any radiators when you do have the heating on. Place sofas and beds near radiators (to get maximum benefit) but with enough space for heat to circulate through the room.
• Draught-proof your windows – with self-adhesive foam tape.
• Keep doors and windows closed – to prevent heat from escaping.
• Close curtains at 3pm (before sunset) – to keep heat inside. Keep your curtains open during the day to allow the sun to warm up your home.
• Heavyweight curtains – will help keep the heat inside.
• Candles – might not heat up an entire room but they will certainly do their bit to making it feel warmer.
• Hot water bottles – will heat up your bed and even sitting with one during the day will keep you warm!
• Cover the keyholes – especially on doors that you don’t typically lock/unlock.
• Layer up – blankets and jumpers will help to keep you warm indoors.

When you are using your heating this winter, make sure you are getting the best value for your money! Choose your ideal temperature, set timers and make sure your boiler has been serviced (this should happen every 12 months). Defective boilers can increase your heating bill as they need to work harder to get your home to optimum temperature.

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