With freezing temperatures predicted to arrive next week across the whole of the UK, experts from MyBuilder.com have shared some tips heating advice so many people can reduce the cost of their energy bills
With snow and freezing temperatures forecast to sweep across the entire UK next week, heating specialists from MyBuilder.com have revealed crucial money-saving advice to help households slash their energy costs. Energy bills continue to soar as millions of Britons fire up their heating systems to combat the plummeting temperatures.
Many people often turn to social media to try and find ways to reduce their energy bills, however it’s important to get expert advice on the matter. Fresh research from the experts at MyBuilder.com reveals that 79% of Britons are monitoring their electricity consumption, a figure that jumps to 84% among the over-55s demographic.
Likewise, two-thirds (65%) of Britons confess to restricting their gas usage, whilst 64% are keeping a close eye on their water consumption.
With these concerns in mind, MyBuilder.com has unveiled practical guidance on the most effective methods to slash your winter bills.
From enhanced insulation to “boiler jackets”, there’s a solution for every household and budget.
For optimal outcomes, forward planning and making long-term investments in your property proves most beneficial.
However, for those lacking time or funds, there are also straightforward hacks to attempt, provided you maintain realistic expectations about potential savings. Combining both strategies can yield significant reductions.
Purchase a ‘boiler jacket’
Water cylinder jackets are essentially insulation for your boiler’s water cylinder, they trap the heat inside and prevent wastage. You can start a DIY installation of a jacket from just £20, depending on the thickness of the material used.
If you’re feeling ambitious, you could also insulate any external pipes to and from the boiler for a similar cost. By installing a jacket, you can reduce heat loss by over 75%, saving up to £200 per year (based on recent energy prices).
Check your Insulation
Investing in good insulation is a smart move as it protects your home from both hot and cold weather.
Lofts are a great place to begin, as this is often where most heat is lost. Walls and floors should also be considered.
Get your boiler serviced
The last thing you want when the temperature drops is to be without heating or hot water. Recent statistics from MyBuilder.com showed that many UK homeowners are postponing their annual service due to the cost of living crisis, but it’s one area you can’t cut corners on.
Having your boiler serviced before the cold weather hits ensures you’ll stay warm, and can prevent more expensive issues with your boiler down the line.
Bleed your radiators
It’s incredibly frustrating to turn on the heating only to find your radiators are still stone cold. In many cases, this might simply be caused by air bubbles blocking the pipework.
Bleeding a radiator is a simple task that involves opening the valve (usually found in the top corner) to let out any excess air. Ensure your heating is switched off before you start.
You might need a radiator key, which can be bought from most shops for a mere £2. A screwdriver or even a knife can also do the trick.
Open the valve with a tissue or cloth underneath to catch any water that follows the escaping air, and shut the valve as soon as water begins to flow.
If multiple radiators are giving you trouble, it could indicate larger issues with your heating system, and it might be worth calling in a heating expert to take a look.
Upgrade your windows
Your windows could be a significant source of heat loss in your home, particularly if they’re old. Government statistics reveal that 18% of heat loss happens through windows, and some households may qualify for government grants to upgrade.
Moreover, 7% of UK homes lack double glazing, and single glazing is far less efficient. Triple glazing is gaining popularity, and while it’s pricier than double glazing, it can be up to 50% more energy efficient.
It’s advisable to have a professional evaluate the state of your windows and weigh up the long-term cost savings of upgrading.
Invest in a portable heater
Portable heaters are growing in popularity due to their ease of use and effectiveness at warming specific areas. This makes them particularly handy for remote workers who spend the majority of their time in one room.
They’re also budget-friendly, with prices starting from just £20, and they can cost as little as 8p per hour to operate.
Nevertheless, they typically rely on electricity, so bear in mind the long-term expenses.
It’s advisable that you locate a heater that delivers maximum heating power whilst consuming minimal electricity.
Put up some thermal curtains
If you haven’t got them already, thermal curtains or blinds are brilliant for controlling temperature.
They can trap the heat indoors during winter, and block out the sunshine in summer.
Swift and straightforward to fit if you’ve got the proper tools, or with assistance from a handyman, they can maintain your house considerably warmer in icy conditions.
Enhance your ventilation
Throughout colder and damper months, Britons are far more inclined to dry their damp clothing inside.
Yet, doing this releases the equivalent of nine pints of water into your property, potentially causing mould development as a consequence, which can trigger numerous severe health hazards.
If you want to avoid such elevated moisture levels within your property, it’s essential that you boost your ventilation.
This can be achieved using a German method called Stoßlüften – meaning “shock ventilation.”
The technique involves opening all your windows for 10 minutes during autumn, or five minutes in winter, twice daily, and you’ll allow dampness to escape from your house in exchange for cold and dry air.
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.”