Bleed your radiators
Ensure your radiators are heating to the top, if not they need to be bled. Cold air that is trapped at the top prevents the radiator from heating fully. A small radiator bleed key will set your back £1 in any local DIY store. You then use the key to open the small valve at the top of your radiator. You’ll hear air come out, then when you see a drip of water close the valve. Your radiator should be piping hot now!
Get your boiler serviced
Ensure your boiler is serviced annually, older boilers than are not looked after a prone to faults. So, to keep your house toasty this Winter, make sure your boiler is well looked after. Oh, and be sure to use a professional.
Use the oven to heat your kitchen
After having cooked dinner in the oven, most of us close the door again. Why not leave the door open and let the heat slowly transfer into your kitchen? It’ll help keep your house warm while you eat. Be careful to keep little ones away from the oven though!
Get creative with your insulation
Get some pipe lagging from your local DIY store and cut sections to fit the bottom of your doors, then slide it on to form a tight seal against the ground. This is a cheap and easy way to minimize draughts in the home. Furthermore, ensure there are no small cracks or gaps in your walls or cupboards, some spray foam insulation can also help prevent draughts – be sure to check the can for all safety precautions before use.
Know your ideal temperature
Most of us turn the thermostat up full when it is bitterly cold outside, it is best to regulate the indoor temperature to around 18c, then increase it by 1c until you find the ideal temperature. That way you won’t waste excess energy from leaving the heating on too high, for too long.
