Winter brings with it a variety of challenges, including the need to keep the home warm and cozy. Heating costs can quickly add up during the colder months, leaving many homeowners with a hefty bill at the end of the season. Fortunately, there are several ways to save on heating costs without sacrificing comfort.
Winter is inevitable and for most households, it means higher energy bills. According to a report by UK Power, the average household pays £48 per month for gas and £49 per month for electricity. If you are in this category, what if I told you didn’t have to pay as much? Just how do you achieve that?
Well, in this read, Corgi are going to provide a few simple winter energy tips that you can implement today!
Buy Ceiling Fans
This may sound counterintuitive, as fans are meant to keep things cool during summer. While that is true, they can also be used to redistribute heat during the cold months. They are even more practical in houses with high ceilings.
Warm air rises and instead of being trapped on the ceiling, the fans will work to push it down, making your heating element work less hard.
Turn Down the Thermostat
When it’s cold, it is common sense to turn up the heat right? Well, that higher temperature means that your heating system has to work harder, leading to more electricity or gas consumption.
It is advisable to keep the temperature at a relatively comfortable level. If you like it at 23 degrees, turn it down to 21 or 20. This could save you up to £75 per year on energy bills. It is also wise to wear a sweater, socks or tuck yourself in a blanket rather than turning up the thermostat.
Invest in an Electric Radiator
While a radiator may seem a bit inferior compared to its counterparts, it will certainly help you save on energy bills. The appealing part of a radiator is that you can control the temperature in the space it occupies meaning you won’t waste energy. It is also easier to run compared to other heating systems.
Check the Attic
The attic is one of the most problematic areas when it comes to heating. If it has leaks or lacks adequate insulation, it allows warm air to escape, leading to higher energy consumption. This is especially a common issue in older homes.
To determine the appropriate level of insulation, it’s advisable to consult with the local building inspector. After that, you can inspect your attic and compare its insulation level with the recommended one. If additional insulation is required, consider the loose-fill type rather than fiberglass as it will get into the crevices and do the necessary sealing.
Check and Seal Other Leaking Spots
Warm air can escape not only through the attic but also through windows, doors, and ductwork. If you find any loose frames, seal them using caulk. It’s also advisable to have a professional inspect and patch air ducts if there are any leaks. The expert can also do an energy audit of your entire home to ascertain maximum energy efficiency.
Leverage the Sun’s Energy
When the sun is out, turn off the lights, turn down the heater, and let the natural light warm your home. When it gets dark, don’t forget to pull the drapes and cover the windows. If you are dealing with drafty windows, get quilted curtains. They have thicker fabric that makes it hard to warm air to escape.
Control Your Home’s Humidity
Most households need between 30 to 60 percent humidity to stay comfortable. Anywhere below this range makes the air dry, and you’ll be forced to turn up the thermostat. So, get a humidifier to put water vapor into the air if necessary. This will prevent the need to turn up your heater and thus save on the heating cost.
Eventually, it’s important to remember to keep your heating system well-maintained. Regular maintenance can help to ensure that your heating system is running efficiently, which can help to reduce your heating costs over time.
By following these simple tips, you can save a significant amount of money on your heating bills during the winter season.
