The colder months are coming, and it won’t be long until winter is here in full force. This is a prime time for heat to start getting sucked out of every crack and crevice, while the electricity bills start to rise. Not to forget the dark nights that will inevitably see more lights being switched on in your home for a longer period of time—and you are more likely to be indoors than outside.
All of these seemingly little changes add up and start to hike up those costs, as well as having a negative environmental impact.
So, with that in mind, this piece is going to take a look at making your home more energy efficient!
Banish the Drafts
It can be easier said than done, to banish drafts from the home, especially if you are living in an old building. However, these old buildings are one of the main causes of heat loss from a home, especially around the windows. Tackle the windows first, and if you are able to, look at replacing them entirely (especially if they are old or your glazing is no longer working properly).
Take a look at getting some energy efficient windows installed to help keep your home toasty!
After you have worked on the windows, you can then take a look at other draft culprits, such as gaps around and under doors, cracks in walls, and keyholes—to name just a few.
Make Little Swaps
It is true that the little things make up the big things, so making energy friendly swaps around the house can make a big impact in the long run.
For example, try swapping out traditional light bulbs for ecofriendly versions, and turn off your appliances when you are able to (and this includes off standby, too). You can actually get smart switches to help with this, which allow you to control when appliances are on and off from a distance.
In addition, use smart appliances where you can, as this can save you a significant amount of money on your energy bills. A smart meter can let you know how much energy you are using at any point, which can be great for keeping an eye on the bills and lowering your consumption. Or, you might also want to look at smart thermostats, which means you can control the heating right from your smartphone without even having to be in the same place. Great for the times you might have left the heating on in the morning!
Give Radiators Space to Breathe
When using radiators this season, to get the most out of them it is important to make sure they are not always covered. Make sure no furniture is blocking your radiator so the hot air is able to circulate properly, and also don’t leave clothes on the radiator for a long time if you can help it, as this essentially has the same effect.
It might also be worth investing in reflector panels that go behind the radiator to help the heat disperse further and wider in the room.
