Household tasks
- Turn down your thermostat - Every 1 degree down saves 7% on your total bill, £175 per year on average. Heat for less time and heat less rooms (e.g. by switching off the radiators in unused rooms) if you can.
- Control the temperature in each room - Use the thermostat and the radiator valves to control the temperate in each room. Try using a thermometer to check you’ve got the settings just right. You should aim for 18c in the living areas and 16c in the bedrooms. (Remember, below 16c in a room can pose a risk to health).
- Smart Heating - In the day it is important to try to use as much natural - and free - heat (in the form of sunlight) as possible. But when dusk falls, closing your curtains will help your home retain that heat. This helps keep warmth in the room – but try not to drape them over radiators. If it’s safe to do so, leave your oven door open a little after cooking. This lets the residual heat enter the kitchen, warming it a little.
- Opt for showers instead of baths - Swapping just one bath a week with a 4-minute shower could save you £12 a year on your energy bills.
- Avoid using a tumble dryer for your clothes - Dry clothes on racks inside where possible or outside in warmer weather to save money.
Adjust your boiler
- Stored hot water should be set at 65C to prevent legionella
- If you have a combi boiler at home - you don't have a hot water cylinder and there is a (usually white) plastic pipe under the boiler - you may wish to consider turning down the heating flow temperature.
- On the front - sometimes behind a flap - look for a dial or set of buttons with a radiator icon.
- You may also want to turn off the hot water pre-heat. Many boilers come on every few hours - night and day - to ensure there's always some hot water available. Most homes don't need this, and turning it off saves money.
Additional Winter Warmth Hacks
- Layer up - Wear multiple layers of clothing to stay warm without cranking up the thermostat.
- Hot Beverages - Sip on warm tea, coffee, or hot chocolate.
- Hearty Meals: Enjoy warm soups and stews.
- Hot Water Bottles: Place hot water bottles in your bed for extra warmth.
- Use blankets - Cozy blankets and electric blankets can provide warmth without excessive energy use.
Want more energy saving advice?
Cutting back on the amount of electricity or gas you use in your home each day can really help to reduce your energy consumption. And this can translate to lower energy bills.
Read our top tips on easy things you can start doing today
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