9 ways to keep warm without turning your central heating up

Heating our homes is a necessity, and in winter you might find yourself resigned to rising energy bills. But there are other ways to keep your home feeling warm and cosy that do not involve putting your radiators on full blast.

When the cold starts to bite, try these ideas for keeping warm and energy efficient first.

1. Thick curtains

Fabric curtains are a valuable insulator, the equivalent of giving your windows a toasty blanket. A significant amount of heat is lost through windows, even double glazed ones, so thick curtains help conserve heat on winter nights.

2. Letting in the daylight

Even on a cold day, sunlight through the glass raises the interior temperature. Open your curtains during the day to harness this free source of warmth.

3. Interior window insulation

If you do not have double glazing, clear adhesive window insulation reduces heat lost through glass panes. It is cheap, easy to install and does not affect the light coming through.

4. Draught excluders

Stuffed fabric draught excluders trap warmth in the room you are in and work wonders on exterior doors, preventing outdoor draughts sweeping through your home.

5. Electric blankets

Electric blankets take the chill out of going to bed and let you turn the central heating off earlier. They are cost effective, easy to use and cosy on a cold winter’s evening.

6. Winter bedding

A mattress topper, a thick blanket under your sheet and a thicker winter duvet make beds cosier and reduce your reliance on central heating at night.

7. DIY loft insulation

Better insulation does not have to be a huge overhaul. Affordable loft insulation rolls from hardware stores, with plenty of DIY tutorials online, can help reduce your gas bills.

8. Cosy rugs, throws and pillows

Soft furnishings like throws, rugs, carpets and pillows provide great insulation and create a cosy atmosphere, reducing your reliance on extra heating.

9. Wearing extra layers

Obvious, but often overlooked. Make sure everyone has slippers, dressing gowns and warm indoor clothing, so you can turn the heating down a few degrees and save money every day.

If you would like to talk to someone about getting an energy efficient boiler, our friendly customer care team is happy to help.