There are several things you can do around your home to keep in the warmth during the cold months. Finance experts at TopCashback have shared some practical tips for retaining the heat and helping reduce your energy bills.
Consumer shopping expert Molly Mileham-Chappell spoke about some simple habits to try around the home.
She said: “You should keep an eye on any doors or curtains left open, making sure they are shut in cold evenings and early mornings will help insulate each room and keep your house cosy through the winter.”
Sunset is at just before 5pm this time of year meaning temperatures start to dip at around this time on colder days, so this may be a good time to check your curtains and doors are closed.
Ms Mileham-Chappell pointed to another helpful habit in the kitchen to get some extra warmth: “Simple habits such as leaving the oven door open once you have finished cooking is a great way to ensure you’re getting the most out of your energy and spreading warmth.”
Check your radiators
You may also want to check over your radiators. The expert said: “To make the most of your utilities, be sure there isn’t anything blocking your radiator, this includes furniture or even items resting on top – this way the warm air will have the chance to circulate through your home.
“Purchase heat reflectors, these are inexpensive and make a huge difference to keep the heat you’re using in. All you need to do is slide them down the back of the radiator and they’ll deflect heat back to the room rather than getting absorbed by the wall.”
There are also some ways you can stay warm without putting the heating on, such as by adding some extra layers of clothing. Ms Mileham-Chappell said: “Layer up before anything else, and keep a stash of thick jumpers and chunky throws around the house, and the likes of fluffy socks too.”
She said woollen or thick cotton loungewear are also a good choice to keep warm and you could even go for a fleeced duvet. The consumer expert said: “While they can seem a bit pricier initially, they’re a worthwhile investment as they could help reduce the urge to ramp up the central heating.”
Using a hot water bottle
Another way to add some extra warm is a hot water bottle – and you should think about how you use this item to get the most out of it. The consumer advocate said: “Ensure your fresh sheets or sofa cushion are toasty by tucking in on a hot water bottle beforehand, therefore when you sit down you don’t have to adjust – you can even pop the hot water bottle on your lap after for extra warmth.
“Although hot water bottles can last between two to three years, make the most out of its lifespan by filling it with half boiling water and half room temperature water – this way you’ll help prevent any cracks or damage.”