Winter Home Heating Tips

Now that the cold weather has started to show its face we all have started to switch the heating on to keep warm.

I have put together a few home heating tips on how to stay warm without breaking the bank.

First and foremost make sure the boiler has been serviced and given a clean bill of health.

You will be surprised at how many people complain about the cost of heating their home in the winter months.

When you ask, has the boiler been checked over, the answer is normally no.

By having the boiler serviced, everything is checked to ensure it is working 100%,

An unserviced boiler working at 80% will cost you more in running costs.

Radiators, the location of the radiators has a big impact on staying warm.

Make sure the radiator is the correct size for the room.

So many people are now changing for these designer radiators without checking the heat requirements needed.

Radiators located under windows with curtains that are closed in the evening will be restricting the heat.

By Closing the curtains you are restricting the flow of heat, heat will not come through.

To get the full benefit of the radiator, fit shorter curtains if possible.

Any radiator that is covered in any form will not produce enough heat needed to keep you warm.

Don’t put the washing on top to dry out, the heat will go straight into the cloths and not the room.

If you have a room thermostat fitted set it to 21c, that should give you a comfortable living temperature.

The thermostat should be located in the coldest spot in your home.

The idea being once it reaches temperature the rest of the home should be warm.

If this is not the case, it means it’s located in the wrong position.

Insulation can and does cut down on those fuel costs, check that the loft is insulated.

If it’s not insulated them go to the local DIY store and purchase enough roof insulation for your home.

You can also buy insulation that fits the back of radiators, it will help boost the heat into the
room.

If your home is of the older style you may have a few drafts, try to block off any drafts you may have, but don’t block off any ventilation gills.

The ventilation grills are fitted for a reason, normally to supply oxygen for a fire, wood burner or gas appliance.

Best to check first with a professional before blocking any vents off.

You could contact your local Gas Safe Registered Company who services your boiler to check any vents for you.

These are just a few home heating tips to follow, there are many more that could improve your heat performance as well as keeping the costs down.

Home heating does not need to be expensive, it can be, but it doesn’t need to be.