Get ready for winter with these money-saving tips! As temperatures drop, so does our bank account when it comes to heating and hot water bills. But don't despair, there are simple steps you can take to keep warm without breaking the bank. Discover how to take control of your energy usage and save on heating costs.
Say goodbye to high heating bills and hello to a warm and affordable winter.
Use those heating controls
If your house is heated by radiators with hot water from a boiler you have central heating. Did you know that heating and hot water can consume over half of a household's energy bills? That's what the Energy Saving Trust reveals!
So controlling that heating is vital to stop a hole burning in your back pocket.
The way your central heating is controlled might be:
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A thermostat to set your home's desired temperature
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Set a timer or schedule for your heating to turn on or off.
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Controls to adjust single radiator temperature
You can easily use these central heating controls to keep your home at a comfortable temperature, without overheating. This will not only save energy but also help you reduce your bills.
Only heat your home when you need to
Save energy and money by only heating your home when you need it. Don't waste energy heating an empty house. Take advantage of the timer and programme functions on your thermostat to create a schedule that aligns with your daily routine.
Beware of the myth that cranking up the thermostat will warm your house faster. It has no effect on the temperature of the water flowing through your radiators. It only prolongs the time your heating system stays on, resulting in higher gas usage and increased costs.
Keep your radiator systems clean
Ensuring cleanliness and sludge-free water in your system (the water that circulates in your pipes and radiators) is crucial for optimizing the efficiency of your heating system.
Moreover, it helps your boiler and central heating system last longer. By maintaining a clean and well-functioning system, you can enjoy both enhanced performance of your central heating system and extended lifespan of your heating equipment.
If you notice cold spots at the bottom of your radiators or if some radiators take significantly longer to heat up than others, it may indicate that your system is excessively sludgy.
Research suggests that sludge in radiators can increase heating bills by 25%* as well as causing cold spots and uneven heat distribution. To prevent this, it's recommended to power flush your heating system every 5-6 years. This involves using high-pressure water mixed with cleaning chemicals to remove any stubborn debris or sludge from your pipework and radiators. And saving money on heating, in the long run.
Discover the state of your system water by performing a simple test: carefully bleed a small amount into a container from your radiator valve. But here's the catch: don't be fooled! Most of the dirt in the system lurks at the bottom, so even in dirty systems, the bled-off water may appear deceptively clear.
If you feel unsure of how to do this, ask a professional gas engineer to do this for you.
They will also be able to advise you on the best course of action for your particular system.
What type of boiler do you have?
If you have both a boiler and a separate hot water tank, it is likely that you have a standard boiler. Your hot water tank can typically be found either in an airing cupboard or in your loft.
If you don't have a separate water tank, chances are you've got what's known as a combi boiler.
How to save if you have a separate hot water tank and boiler
The temperature of your boiler's flow directly impacts the temperature of your tap water. It is possible to reduce the boiler flow temperature to 65°C. However, it is crucial not to set the temperature below 65°C as this is necessary to eliminate harmful bacteria in the water. By maintaining this balance, you can ensure both safety and efficiency in your water heating system.
How to save if you have a combi boiler
The heating flow temperature refers to the temperature at which your boiler heats water before distributing it to the radiators. However, this setting is often too high for most combi boilers to operate at their peak efficiency. By adjusting this temperature, you can optimize your boiler's performance and ensure maximum energy efficiency, saving those valuable pounds.
A more efficient combi boiler can be achieved by lowering the flow temperatures. By simply reducing the flow temperature from 80°C to 60°C, the average household could potentially save up to £112 per year**.
How to keep heat in your home?
There are easy and cost-effective ways to keep the heat you've paid for in your home.
In addition to controlling your heating system, there are simple ways you can keep heat from escaping your home and reduce the need for constant heating. Here are some tips:
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Insulate your walls and attic: Good insulation is key in keeping the warmth inside your home. By properly insulating your walls and loft, you can prevent heat loss and save on heating costs.
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Seal any leaks and draughts: Check for any gaps or leaks around windows, doors, and letter boxes. Use weather stripping or caulk to seal them and prevent heat from escaping.
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Close your curtains at night: Closing your curtains can help keep the heat in, especially if you have thick curtains with thermal lining.
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Make use of natural sunlight: During the day, open your curtains and let in the sunlight
Use heated throws or blankets
To stay warm without cranking up your heating, consider using heated throws or blankets. They consume electricity, but the cost is minimal, around 3p per hour of usage. However, it's important to prioritise safety when using any heated throw or blanket. Always check the label to ensure it bears a safety mark, guaranteeing its suitability for use.
Electric heating
A great way to save money on heating is by changing your traditional gas heating to energy efficient heating using electric.
There are many benefits to electric heating, including:
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Cost savings: Electric heaters can be cheaper to purchase and install compared to gas boilers.
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Energy efficiency: Electric heating systems offer greater control over individual room temperatures, allowing for more efficient use of energy.
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Environmentally friendly: Electric heating produces zero emissions and is therefore considered an environmentally friendly option.
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Easy installation: Electric heating systems do not require complex installation processes and can be easily installed in any home.
Types of Electric Heating
There are many types of electric heating that can be used in your home. These can be used on their own or in addition to your current heating system. They can really help to save money on heating with gas prices on the increase.
Here are some common types of electric heating options:
Panel heaters: These are slim, wall-mounted electric heaters that can be used to heat individual rooms or supplement your current heating system. They come in various sizes and designs to fit any space.
Oil filled heaters: These are portable electric heaters filled with oil that heats up and circulates air in a room. They provide long-lasting heat and can be used to supplement your current heating system.
Ceramic Fan Heaters: These are compact, portable heaters that use a ceramic element to generate heat, which is then distributed quickly and evenly around the room by a built-in fan. They warm up in seconds, making them ideal for quickly taking the chill off smaller rooms — and they're a great energy-conscious choice when you only need to heat one space at a time.
Convector heaters: These heaters work by drawing in cool air from the bottom, warming it as it passes over a heating element, and releasing it back into the room from the top. This natural circulation creates a consistent, comfortable warmth throughout the space — no fan required! They're quiet, reliable, and perfect for keeping a room cosy over longer periods. If you're looking for an energy-smart way to heat a room without any noise or fuss, a convector heater could be just the thing.
Whether you have a traditional boiler or an electric heating system, there are always ways to save money on heating and make your home more energy efficient. By following these energy saving tips and exploring different options for heating, you can keep warm without breaking the bank. So why not start making these changes today? Your wallet (and the environment) will thank you.
