These items will save you hundreds of pounds in energy bills this winter
Energy prices are continuing to rise, as millions of Brits start to turn on the heating to ward off the colder weather. For many of us, it’s the time to start considering how we can save money on our heating bills, but which tips actually make a difference?
According to recent data from MyBuilder.com, the reliable way to hire tradespeople, 79 per cent of Brits are watching their use of electricity - this figure rises to 84 per cent in the over 55s age group. Similarly, two thirds (65%) of Brits admit to limiting their use of gas, and
64 per cent are watching their water.
An expert from MyBuilder.com has put together a helpful guide on what will work best to lower your bills this winter. From better insulation, to “boiler jackets”, there’s a tip for everyone, and to suit any budget.
For the best results, planning ahead and investing long term in your home is the best course of action. But for those who don’t have the time or money, there are also simple tricks to try - as long as you’re realistic about the potential results. And a combination of both approaches can make substantial savings.
Andy Simms, an expert from MyBuilder.com, said: “The reality is there is no substitute for proper measures taken in your home to improve its efficiency, for example installing adequate insulation or replacing single glazed windows or drafty frames.
“However, there are some really simple hacks that will make a difference without breaking the bank. We’d always advise to plan ahead and improve your home in the most substantial way possible - but every little counts when the energy prices just keep rising.
“The best strategy is to combine these tips with more permanent solutions.”
Here’s MyBuilder.com’s guide to ways to improve your home’s efficiency this winter, and therefore lowering your bills:
Buy a “boiler jacket”
Water cylinder jackets are simply insulation for your boiler’s water cylinder - trapping the heat inside and preventing wastage. DIY installation of a jacket starts from just £20, depending on the thickness of the material used. If you wanted to go even further, you could also insulate any external pipes to and from the boiler for a similar amount. If you install a jacket you can reduce heat loss by over 75 per cent, saving up to £200 per year (based on the recent energy prices).
Check your Insulation
Good insulation is brilliant for protecting your home from both hot and cold weather, so it’s well worth investing in. Lofts are a good place to start, as this is often where the most heat is lost. Walls and floors are also areas for consideration. For an idea of costs, check out: https://www.mybuilder.com/insulation/price-guides/insulation-cost
Get your boiler serviced
The last thing you need when the temperature plummets is to be without heating or hot water. MyBuilder.com statistics recently showed that many UK homeowners are delaying getting their annual service due to the cost of living crisis, but it’s one area you can’t scrimp on. Getting your boiler serviced ahead of cold weather ensures you will stay warm, and can prevent more costly issues with our boiler in the future.
Bleed your radiators
Switching on the heating to find your radiators are still stone cold is so frustrating. In many cases, this might just be caused by air bubbles that block up the pipework. Bleeding a radiator simply involves releasing the valve (normally located in the top corner) and letting the excess air out. Make sure the heating is turned off for this process. You may need a radiator key, which is available at most shops for just £2. A screwdriver (or a knife!) are also effective tools. Release the valve with a tissue or rag underneath to catch any water after the air has stopped hissing out, and close the valve as soon as water starts to come out. If there are problems across multiple radiators, it could be a sign of larger issues in your heating system, and it could be worth getting a heating professional to investigate.
Upgrade your Windows
Your windows could be a major source of heat loss in your home, especially if they are old. According to government statistics, 18 per cent of heat loss occurs through windows - and some households may be eligible for government subsidies to upgrade. Also, seven per cent of UK homes have no double glazing - and single glazing is far less efficient. Triple glazing is also becoming popular, and while more expensive than double it can be up to 50 per cent more energy efficient. It is worth getting a professional to assess the condition of your windows and consider the cost savings in the long term of upgrading.
Buy a portable heater
Portable heaters are becoming increasingly popular, as they’re easy to set up, and effective at heating specific areas, making them especially useful for remote workers who spend most of their time in one room. They’re also cost-effective - prices available for as low as £20, and they can cost as little as 8p an hour to run. However, they typically run on electricity, so consider the long-term costs. It’s recommended that you find a heater that provides the most heating output on the lowest electricity usage.
Install some thermal curtains
If you don’t already have them, thermal curtains or blinds are great for temperature control. They can keep the warmth inside in winter, and keep the sun out in summer! Quick and easy to install if you have the right tools, or with the help of a Handyman, they can keep your home much warmer in freezing temperatures.
Improve your ventilation
During colder and wetter months, Brits are much more likely to dry their wet clothes indoors. However, doing this causes the equivalent of nine pints of water to be released into your home, leading to potential mould growth as a result, which can cause a number of serious health risks. If you wish to prevent such high levels of moisture inside your home, it’s vital that you improve your ventilation. This can be done with a German technique called Stoßlüften - translating to “shock ventilation.” The trick is to open all of your windows for 10 minutes in autumn, or five minutes in winter, twice a day, and you will let moisture out of your home in place of cold and dry air.
