The clocks are going back, the autumn TV staples are well into their yearly runs, and the temperature is dipping; it’s definitely time to put the heating on for another year. But with bills rising, how do you keep your heating system energy efficient, and the costs under control?
Here are some tips to help you stay toasty all winter long:
Add valves
Try fitting valves to radiators, especially older ones, which often can’t be turned down or up, only on or off. If you use thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs) in particular, you will enjoy greater control over the heat given off by each radiator.
Replace pipes and radiators
Secondly, while it may seem (and indeed is) a major investment, replacing pipework and radiators can make sound sense, particularly if you haven’t updated your central heating system in some years. Modern radiators tend to be more efficient than older models, heating your home more efficiently.
Keep furniture away from radiators
It can be easy to forget that if you cover radiators with curtains or other furniture, it prevents heat from circulating efficiently round the room. Either move some items of furniture or replace the furniture somewhere different instead.
Insulation to minimise loss
Another simple yet effective way to get the most out of radiator units is to place radiator foil at the back of them. This will reflect heat back into the middle of the room, and you’ll feel the benefit. Equally, hot water and central heating pipes which emit heat should also be insulated so that you minimise heat loss, and so save money.
Turn down your thermostat
You may have heard this one before, but people do forget. By turning down your room thermostat by just a single degree you could cut heating bills by up to 10%. Keeping it at between 18 and 21 degrees Centigrade ought to maintain your home at a warm, comfortable temperature.
At Warm Front Ltd., we offer a range of energy efficiency measures, from cavity wall insulation to loft insulation, and can discuss renewable energy options like solar panels with you – and carry out energy performance checks. Talk to us today about how we could keep your heating bills low this winter.
