Studies state that almost half of the UK adults will ration their energy bills this winter as energy bills went up by 10% this week at the beginning of October. For a family home, that could mean an increase of as much as £40-50 per month. That’s a lot of money for some people, especially over the already expensive enough Christmas period.
So, how do you heat your house without increasing your energy bills? Read on to find out.
This is a collaborative post.
Windows and Doors
Your windows and doors will be your biggest culprit.
On average, your windows and doors will let out about 25–30% of heat from your home. Yes, suggesting new windows and doors is an investment, but if you can feel a draft and you know your home feels colder than other homes you go into even when you both have the heating on, it’s an investment worth making.
So that’s what we’re going to do: suggest you look at websites like macblair.com to find high-quality windows and doors and pay someone to fit them. It’s cheaper than letting a contractor find the windows and doors for you and then fitting them. And you only need to do it for the living room and bedroom, so it’s not as expensive as you’d think.
It can even be as simple as getting thicker curtains and insulating blinds to help regulate the temperature.
Smart Technology
Of course, we had to mention smart technology.
Smart thermostats are good; we can’t deny it. You can schedule your heating system to come on at optimal times of the day so your home feels warm 24/7 without the heating being on 24/7. Some systems will also let you set zones, which would be even more efficient. Again, you only really need to worry about the bedrooms and the living room.
Most energy companies are now asking their customers if they want a smart meter, and it really changes nothing for you other than making life easier and more efficient.
Smart energy technology will be in most homes over the next few years.
Wrapping Up and Using Electric Blankets
Sorry to say it, but we know everyone hates to hear this one, but wrapping up is sometimes what you must do. If you’re cold, get a comfy dressing gown and some fluffy socks, and it will make a difference.
Or, if you haven’t tried electric heated blankets before, they will change your life. They don’t consume as much energy as putting the heating on for a few hours, and they’re so comfy! You can find cheap ones on Amazon, and they last a few years if you buy a good one.
Heating up your home will become a little more expensive—you’ve probably already noticed it with your end-of-October bill. You can’t escape the 10% increase in energy prices, but you can minimise the impact. And besides, it’s already cold in the UK and only about to get colder; now is the time to think about staying as warm as possible without breaking the bank this winter.