Spring is just around the corner, but that doesn't mean winter is ready to pack its bags just yet. As we head into April, many parts of the country are still bracing for chilly temperatures and even colder nights. But don't let the lingering cold put a dent in your wallet! With a few simple tips and tricks, you can keep your home cosy and warm without breaking the bank. So whether you're dealing with a sudden cold snap or just looking to save some cash on your heating bill, read on for some easy ways to keep the warmth in and the costs down.
It's important to note that while we're focused on ways to save money on heating, it's always important to prioritise your safety and well-being. If you're someone who is particularly vulnerable to the cold or who relies on a certain temperature in your home for your health and well-being (including mental health), please exercise caution when applying the advice in this article. With that said, for those who are looking to save money on heating without sacrificing comfort, keep reading for some practical tips and tricks.
Wear more clothes
You've probably heard a lot in the news about insulating homes to save energy, but have you ever considered insulating your body? It may seem like an obvious solution, but you'd be surprised at how many people don't take advantage of this simple, cost-effective trick. By wearing more clothes, you can keep your body warm and comfortable without cranking up the thermostat and racking up your heating bill.
The great thing about this technique is that you can use the clothes you already have. Adding an extra layer like an extra pair of socks, a t-shirt under your shirt/blouse, or a jumper under a hoodie can make a world of difference. But if you're worried about looking unfashionable or feeling bulky, you can always invest in some thermals. You can easily find them on Amazon for just £8.99, and they're made from high-tech synthetic materials that are especially good at trapping heat close to your body.
In fact, studies have shown that with an extra thermal layer, the ambient temperature at which you're comfortable increases by about 4 degrees. That means you can turn down your thermostat a few notches and still feel warm and cosy. So next time you're tempted to turn up the heat, try layering up instead - your wallet (and your body) will thank you!
Program your thermostat
Did you know that just by turning your thermostat down by one degree, you could save around 10% on your heating bill? That's an average of £115 a year! It may not seem like much, but those savings can really add up over time. Plus, you'll be doing your part for the environment by conserving energy.
But turning down the thermostat is just the beginning - you also need to make sure it's programmed correctly. If you're not home during the day, there's no need to heat an empty house. Take the time to set up your thermostat's timer so that it turns off when you're out and about and make sure it's set to turn down at night too. It's a simple step that can save you a lot of money in the long run.
And don't forget about your thermostat when you're going on holiday either. If you're going to be away for an extended period of time, make sure to turn the thermostat down before you leave. There's no point in heating an empty house, and you'll be glad you saved a few extra pounds when you come back to a smaller heating bill. So take a few minutes to program your thermostat properly, and watch the savings roll in!
How to save on heating
Have you ever heard the saying "heat the person, not the place"? It's a simple concept that can save you a lot of money on your heating bill. Just like insulating your body is more efficient than insulating your home, it's much more cost-effective to heat up your body than the entire room you're in.
One easy way to do this is by using a hot water bottle. Boiling a kettle for a hot water bottle costs just 1.5p, but can keep you warm for hours. And with hot water bottles starting at just £4, it's an affordable solution for anyone on a tight budget.
But if you're looking for something a bit more high-tech, there are plenty of options out there too. Microwaveable wheat bags are a great alternative to hot water bottles, and they start at just £4. USB hand warmers are another inexpensive option at around £15, and they're perfect for keeping your hands warm while you work on your computer.
So don't waste money heating up empty rooms - focus on heating up yourself instead! With options like hot water bottles, microwaveable wheat bags, and USB hand warmers, you can stay warm and cosy all winter long without breaking the bank.
Stay warm and save money this winter with these easy tips! Layer up with extra clothes, program your thermostat and remember to heat yourself, not just your home. With options like hot water bottles, microwaveable wheat bags, and USB hand warmers, you can stay cosy without breaking the bank. Happy savings!