WITH Christmas just around the corner, any chance to save some money on energy bills is more important than ever.
But with the weather getting colder, it’s getting more difficult to keep homes warm without cranking the heating up.
Max Royston, senior valuer at Gaffsy, the property buying experts, has revealed tips on keeping the house and yourself warm during the winter.
And his seven simple tips could save you money.
Max says: “Draughts from under doors and keyholes can bring in a lot of cold air and cool the temperature of a room quickly.
“By using draught excluders and covering keyholes (even with just tape) can be an effective way to keep your house warm.”
With a roll of clear sticky tape costing as little as 75p in Asda, it can work out as a very cheap and quick hack – even if you have to replace it any time you lock up.
“Heavyweight curtains will insulate your home by preventing heat transfer between cold windows and the rest of the room”, Max continues.
“Consider purchasing suede, velvet or heavy silk curtains as these are thicker materials.
“A lining on regular curtains will also help keep rooms warm.”
While this one may seem obvious, Max says it’s important to ensure all windows and doors are closed throughout the day and night to keep the heat in.
He adds: “When you’re in a room, close the door to maintain the heat and not let it escape to other parts of the house you’re not using.”
Moving the furniture around if your sofa or bed is next to an external wall could also help make you feel warmer.
“Additionally, ensure the radiators aren’t blocked by any furniture as this will limit the amount of heat they’ll give to the room”, suggests Max.
Max says: “Consider using blankets and extra layers before switching the heating on, as it may be all you need.
“Electric blankets can be an economical way to keep warm, without heating the entire house.”
Utilising the timer settings on your thermostat to ensure that you’re not heating rooms when you’re not in them is vital too.
Max says: “Consider when you’d want to feel the warmth the most, such as the morning and evenings, and set the thermostat to only come on for a short period of time to warm the rooms for the rest of the day.
“This will not only save money, but also you’re more likely to feel the benefit during those times.”
Finally, Max suggests using a hot water bottle and putting it under the duvet before you go to get into bed.
“This’ll warm up your bed without needing to put the heating on”, he says.
“Do remember you’ve done this as you shouldn’t lie or sit on hot water bottles.”
