As the temperature gets lower, we all tend to crank up the central heating, which can cause our energy bills to start to rise. Winter can be harsh on your comfort and your bank balance, but with a few handy, practical adjustments, you can keep warm and save money. We’ve put together some energy-saving tips to boost your home’s energy efficiency while keeping cosy this winter.
Check Your Central Heating System
Your central heating system works overtime in winter, so making sure that it’s running at top efficiency is a great starting place. A well-maintained system heats your home more effectively and uses much less energy.
Get a Boiler Service
An annual boiler service keeps your central heating in top shape. A qualified engineer can check for faults, improve performance, and check it’s operating safely. Regular servicing can also prolong your boiler’s lifespan.
Adjust Your Thermostat
Lowering your thermostat by just 1°C can bring down your central heating bill by up to 10%. Try setting it to a comfortable temperature, like 18–20°C, for better efficiency. If you don’t use some of your rooms, think about installing a smart thermostat so that you can only heat the spaces you spend time in. Smart thermostats also give you better control over your heating schedule.
Bleed Radiators to Improve their Energy Efficiency
Cold spots on your radiators probably mean air is trapped inside. This prevents them from heating up properly. Bleeding radiators releases the trapped air and improves the efficiency of your central heating.
How to Bleed Radiators:
- Turn off your central heating and let your radiators cool.
- Use a radiator key to open the valve at the top of the radiator gently.
- Listen for the hiss of escaping air.
- Once water begins to dribble out, close the valve.
Top Tip: Make sure you’ve got a bowl or jug to hand to catch any water that might spill out.
Repeat this for all radiators in your home. If one radiator needs bleeding regularly, then it might be a result of a deeper problem, so contact a professional.
Insulate Your Home
Proper insulation keeps the heat in and the cold out, which makes your home easier to heat. Improving insulation is an investment that can improve your energy efficiency.
Draft-Proof Windows and Doors
Draft excluders, weather-stripping, and even heavy curtains can block cold air from creeping in through gaps in windows and doors.
Upgrade Your Loft and Wall Insulation
Heat rises, so a poorly insulated loft can lead to a major loss. Upgrading your loft insulation is a cost-effective way to boost energy efficiency. For older homes, cavity wall insulation can further reduce heat loss.
Be Smart with Your Heating
Central heating can be expensive, but using it wisely is an energy-saving tip that makes a big difference.
Heat the Rooms You Use
Close doors to spare bedrooms or spaces you don’t use. Turn off the radiators, and instead, focus on heating the spaces you spend the most time in. Zoning your central heating system can help target specific areas and reduce waste.
Harness Natural Heat
Open curtains during the day to let sunlight naturally warm your home. Then, close them in the evening to trap the heat inside. Thick thermal curtains are perfect for retaining heat in this way.
Try Upgrading to Energy-Efficient Appliances
Modern appliances tend to use less energy, saving you money in the long run. If your boiler or other heating equipment is outdated, consider upgrading to energy-efficient models. A new energy-efficient boiler can lower your energy bills and reduce emissions. Check the energy rating before purchasing, or chat with a professional for clear guidance.
Optimise Hot Water Usage
Water heating accounts for a big chunk of energy use. Making small changes to the ways in which you use hot water can have a big impact.
Turn Down Your Water Temperature
Most water heaters in the UK are set to 60°C or higher. Turning it down to 55°C will save you money, and you probably won’t even notice the difference in heat.
Fix Leaky Taps
A dripping tap, especially a hot one, wastes litres of water and energy. Fixing leaks promptly can improve your energy efficiency and bring down your water bill.
Switch to an Air Source Heat Pump
Switching to an air-source heat pump is one of the very best energy-saving tips. It’s a renewable heating solution that extracts heat from the air, even in winter, to warm your home.
Why Choose an Air Source Heat Pump?
Lower Energy Bills:
They use less electricity compared to traditional heating and don’t rely on expensive fossil fuels.
Reduced Carbon Footprint:
They’re more environmentally friendly, helping you to do your bit to reduce emissions.
Eligible for Grants:
In many cases, you can access government incentives to offset installation costs somewhat.
Looking to Improve Your Home’s Energy Efficiency this Winter?
Contact ECS Plumbing for expert advice, guaranteed quality, and a trusted team of fully qualified engineers. With transparent pricing, insured professionals, and a commitment to exceeding your expectations, we ensure peace of mind every step of the way. Upgrade your boiler, book a service engineer, or browse our air source heat pump options today.
FAQs
How often should I bleed radiators?
Check your radiators at least once a year, ideally before winter. If you notice cold spots or uneven heating, it’s time to bleed them.
What is the ideal room temperature in winter?
The best temperature for most homes is between 18°C and 20°C. Lowering it slightly can save energy without compromising comfort.
Does my home need better insulation?
If you’re regularly feeling a draft, struggling to stay warm, or your energy bills are unusually high, it might be time to check your walls, loft, and windows for insulation issues.
Are smart thermostats worth it?
Yes, smart thermostats give you more precise control over your heating, helping you save energy and money by tailoring schedules to your routine.
Further Reading
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