How to reduce your heating bills? Energy saving tips
Winter is fast approaching, and with it the prospect of spiralling heating bills. To avoid the nasty surprise of a hefty bill, here's a complete guide to maintaining a comfortable temperature while keeping your energy consumption, and therefore your budget, under control.
Optimising your heating system Our advice
As your first source of savings, an efficient heating system is an invaluable ally.
Carry out regular maintenance on your heating system
- Have your boiler serviced annually by a professional
- Bleed your radiators before the cold season and at least twice a year
- Regularly remove dust from your radiators to improve heat distribution.
Adopt a few technical upgrades to optimise your energy consumption
- Install thermostatic valves on your radiators
- Install reflector panels behind radiators on external walls
- Install a connected programmable thermostat
Opt for a less energy-intensive heating system. Here's a list of heating systems from the least energy-intensive to the most energy-intensive
- Heat pump
- Condensing boiler
- Electrical heating
- Gas heating
- Oil-fired heating
How can you insulate your home effectively?
Another key factor in reducing your energy consumption is to insulate your home effectively, especially by identifying and treating areas of heat loss.
Limit heat loss areas
- Install thick curtains on windows
- Fit seals to windows and doors
- Install door sills to prevent draughts
- Insulate your attic and floor if possible
Get into good everyday habits to save on heating costs
- Close the shutters and curtains at night
- Limit the use of frequently unoccupied rooms
Avoid leaving windows open too long
What is the right temperature for your home?
The right temperature keeps your budget in check. Did you know? Lowering your heating thermostat by 1 degree saves an average of 6% on your energy bill.
The right temperature for each room
- Living/dining room: 19-20°C
- Bedrooms: 17-18°C
- Bathroom: 21-22°C (only when in use)
- Unoccupied rooms: 16°C
Adapt the temperature intelligently to save energy
- Turn down the heating by 3-4°C at night
- Set the temperature lower during the day if no-one is home
- Anticipate your morning routine by setting the heating 30 minutes earlier
Long-term investments can permanently slash your heating bill
Renovation work can bring about long-term energy savings. Here are a few tips for renovating your home, while cutting down on energy loss:
- Replace your windows with double or triple glazing
- Insulate external walls
- Install a heat pump (or other energy-efficient heating system)
- Change the joinery in your home
Adopt a new lifestyle during the winter for a guaranteed cocooning atmosphere
- Make the most of the sun by opening the curtains during the day
- Let warm air circulate between rooms
- Cook in the oven more often in winter
- Add a jumper or blanket
- Warm your bed with a hot water bottle rather than heating the room
- Put down rugs to insulate against cold floors
Start with the simplest and least expensive solutions, and then gradually assess whether you need to make more substantial investments. Every little bit helps when it comes to saving money on heating, both for the planet and for your wallet.
