With winter on its way, energy bills are set to rise, and budgets will be stretched in many households. But don’t worry! We’ve gathered some handy tips to help you keep your home warm without breaking the bank. Let’s explore some easy, practical ways to save on energy costs and keep your South Yorkshire home cosy this winter.
Seal the Gaps and Cracks 🏠🔧
Did you know that up to 20% of heat loss in a home comes from small gaps in doors and windows? Draught-proofing is an affordable way to keep the warmth in and the cold out.
- Draught Excluders: Use them for doors, particularly at the bottom of entry doors and gaps.
- Window Sealing Tape: This works wonders for old or single-glazed windows to stop chilly draughts sneaking in.
- Cost Savings: Sealing these gaps can save an average household about £20-£30 a year on heating.
Optimize Your Heating Timer and Thermostat ⏲️🌡️
Setting your heating system to run only when you need it is a straightforward way to save on energy.
- Set Your Thermostat Lower: Try lowering it by 1-2 degrees; you likely won’t notice the difference, but it could save up to 10% on your heating bill.
- Timed Heating: Program your heating to come on 30 minutes before you wake up and to switch off when you leave the house.
- Cost Savings: Lowering the temperature and using heating timers can save you around £80 per year.
Keep the Radiators Clear 🌬️🚫
Avoid putting furniture in front of radiators, as this blocks heat from circulating around the room effectively.
- Clear the Space: Move sofas or large pieces away from radiators.
- Reflective Foil: Installing radiator foil behind radiators on external walls reflects heat back into the room, rather than letting it escape through the walls.
- Cost Savings: This simple change can lead to a 10% increase in warmth for the same energy used.
Use Energy-Efficient Bulbs 💡💰
Lighting can account for around 15% of a home’s electricity bill. Switching to energy-efficient bulbs like LEDs can significantly cut this cost.
- LEDs Use Up to 90% Less Energy: Compared to traditional bulbs, they last longer and can handle more usage without hiking up your bills.
- Smart Bulbs: Consider using smart bulbs that allow you to control lighting remotely or on a schedule to avoid unnecessary usage.
- Cost Savings: Switching to LED bulbs can save you up to £40 a year on your electricity bill.
Make Use of Free Solar Energy ☀️🪟
Even in winter, natural sunlight can help keep rooms warmer and reduce heating needs during the day.
- Open Curtains During the Day: Let the sunshine in, especially on south-facing windows.
- Close Curtains at Night: At night, close the curtains to keep the warmth inside and reduce heat loss through windows.
- Cost Savings: Maximizing natural light and warmth can contribute to small savings that add up over the winter months.
Reduce Your Hot Water Usage 🚿💧
Heating water accounts for around 20% of the average energy bill. Small changes to water usage can have a big impact.
- Install a Water-Saving Showerhead: This reduces water usage without compromising the pressure.
- Take Shorter Showers: Cutting down shower time by just a couple of minutes can save gallons of hot water.
- Insulate Your Water Tank and Pipes: Keeping your water hot for longer means you’ll use less energy to heat it up.
- Cost Savings: These changes can save you up to £50 per year on your water heating bill.
Layer Up and Keep Cosy 🧣🧤
One of the easiest ways to reduce heating costs is to layer up. A few warm layers can keep you comfortable and reduce the need to constantly turn up the thermostat.
- Wear Extra Layers Indoors: Sweaters, socks, and cosy blankets can make all the difference.
- Use Hot Water Bottles and Throws: These cost next to nothing to use but can make a big difference in keeping you warm.
- Cost Savings: Reducing reliance on central heating can result in savings of around £60 annually.
Use Appliances Efficiently 🔌📉
Appliances are essential, but there are ways to use them more cost-effectively.
- Washing Machine: Use lower temperature settings like 30°C and wash only full loads.
- Tumble Dryer: Where possible, air dry clothes instead of using the tumble dryer, which consumes a lot of energy.
- Turn Off Appliances: Unplug appliances when not in use, as many still draw energy when left on standby.
- Cost Savings: This can save up to £60-£70 annually.
Check If You’re Eligible for Government Support 💷🏠
There are grants and programs available to help you manage energy costs, especially during winter. South Yorkshire residents may be eligible for Winter Fuel Payments or the Warm Home Discount scheme.
- Winter Fuel Payment: This helps cover heating costs for older residents during the winter months.
- Warm Home Discount: If eligible, you could receive a discount on your energy bill between October and April.
- Cost Savings: These schemes can provide support of up to £150, helping to reduce winter heating bills.
Consider Upgrading Your Insulation 🧱🚪
Insulating your loft, walls, and even floors can make a big difference in keeping your home warm. Proper insulation keeps the heat in and the cold out, helping you reduce the need for constant heating.
- Loft Insulation: Can save up to 25% of heat loss through the roof.
- Wall Insulation: Solid or cavity wall insulation can keep more heat in and make rooms warmer.
- Cost Savings: Effective insulation can save up to £150 annually on your heating bill.
Stay Cosy, South Yorkshire! 🏡✨
By using these tips, you’ll not only keep your home warm and cosy but also enjoy the satisfaction of managing your energy budget effectively this winter. MP Electrical is always here to help with safe installations or energy-efficient upgrades to keep your home running smoothly and cost-effectively.
Need assistance with electrical upgrades or safety checks? Give MP Electrical a call today! 📞
