As the weather gets noticeably cooler, many homes are stressing over the rising energy costs – luckily this quick expert trick can help you save on bills by catching draughts early
Rising bills are always a worry as temperatures drop but this ultra-quick test can help.
Autumn can be a stressful time for households, especially with the energy price cap set to rise in October. According to Ofgem, the average dual fuel household paying by direct debit will see their annual energy bill rise from £1,720 to £1,755 . Luckily, there a some simple measures you can take to cut costs.
Experts have urged UK households to perform a simple 10-second check this weekend that could slash heating bills by as much as £350 – around 20% of the price new price cap.
READ MORE: Ariana Grande issues stark statement ahead of Eternal Sunshine UK tour saleREAD MORE: ‘I’m a gardening expert and this is the best plant you can buy right now’
Ilja Medvedevs, founder of doorsuppliesonline.co.uk, says most homes are leaking heat without realising it. But the kicker is that the biggest culprit isn’t actually the windows – it’s the doors.
To find out if your doors are leaking heat, Medvedevs recommends conducting a 10-second door check. It simply involves placing the back of your hand around the edges of external doors. Then, move slowly, especially along the bottom edge. If you feel cold air, your door is leaking heat.
Even if the weather may be mild, it’s better not to wait until the biting temperatures of winter. The experts say that September and October are the best months to check, giving households time to act before the coldest weather hits.
Medvedevs says: “This is probably the best 10 seconds you’ll spend this autumn. It costs nothing, and the savings are instant once the draughts are fixed.”
He adds: “Even a 1mm gap around a door is like having a hole the size of a brick in your wall. You’re effectively paying to heat the outdoors. Older or warped doors are most at risk, but even modern doors develop gaps over time.”
So, what happens if you discover a gap? Fortunately, there are several easy ways to help remedy the situation that shouldn’t break the bank.
You can purchase draught excluders or door sweeps block gaps at the bottom or apply self-adhesive weather stripping seals to the sides and tops.
You can also try adjusting hinges or replacing seals for stubborn leaks.
“These fixes are quick, affordable, and can save hundreds over one winter,” Medvedevs explains. “Most people think they need to upgrade their heating system, when the real problem is simply a poorly sealed door.”