In typical Scottish fashion, the cold has crept up on us very suddenly. But don’t worry, we are here to give you some simple and effective ideas to reduce heating costs, improve energy efficiency and adopt small daily habits that can help save money without sacrificing warmth or comfort during the winter months. Let’s take a look.
1. Lower Your Thermostat
Reducing the thermostat by just 1°C can cut your heating bills by up to 10%. And most households won’t notice the difference - especially if you wear warmer clothes indoors.
2. Keep Radiators Clear
Avoid placing large furniture, like sofas, directly in front of radiators. This blocks heat from circulating and makes your heating system work harder. Letting heat move freely through the room means the space will warm up faster.
3. Use Thick Curtains and Close Them at Night
Invest in thick, insulated curtains to keep the heat inside during the night. Make sure to open them during the day to allow natural sunlight to warm your home, especially in south-facing rooms.
4. Layer Up Your Clothing and Bedding
Rather than cranking up the heat, wear thermal layers and use blankets or duvets with a higher tog rating. Fleece blankets are affordable and highly effective at trapping heat and who doesn’t love a tartan blanket.
5. Switch Energy Providers
Check if you can get a better deal by switching energy providers. Using comparison sites like Uswitch or MoneySuperMarket can help you find cheaper tariffs, especially before the cold sets in.
6. Block Out Drafts
Use draft excluders on doors and self-adhesive strips around windows. And, if you have one, you can also block unused chimneys with a chimney balloon or use an old blanket to stop warm air escaping up the flue.
7. Batch Cook and Freeze Meals
Using your oven more efficiently by batch cooking meals will save on energy. You can freeze portions for later, reducing the need to use your oven every day.
8. Turn Off Appliances When Not in Use
Many household appliances and electronics consume energy even when on standby. Turn off gadgets, TVs, and computers completely when not in use to avoid unnecessary power consumption.
9. Use Hot Water Bottles and Electric Blankets Wisely
Instead of heating the entire house, warm up your bed or seating area with a hot water bottle or an electric blanket. They are far more energy-efficient than space heaters or leaving the central heating on for extended periods. Electric blankets use very little energy and you can turn them on just before bed to stay warm through the night.
10. Maximise Oven Heat
When cooking meals in the oven, make the most of the heat by cooking multiple dishes at once or baking extras like potatoes or casseroles to store for later. Once you’re done, leave the oven door open to let the residual heat warm up the kitchen.
As the colder months set in, keeping your home warm and energy bills low doesn’t have to be a challenge. By following these simple and affordable tips, you can make your home more energy-efficient and stay cozy all winter long without breaking the bank. Whether it’s making the most of draft excluders, batch preparing your meals or switching energy company, every small change adds up. Keep these ideas in mind, and you’ll be ready to face the winter with comfort and savings in hand.