Want to keep toasty warm whenever you’re at home, but also want to make sure that you are doing your bit for the planet and not using more resources than you really need to in your bid to heat your home? Good for you! Here are a few things that will definitely help you with your home-heating mission.
1. Insulation
First things first, let’s talk insulation. It might not be the most thrilling topic, but it’s the foundation of an energy-efficient house. Seal those draughts around windows and doors, insulate your loft, and consider upgrading any ancient, rattly windows. Trust me, once your home is sealed up tight, you’ll hold onto heat better—like a teapot with a really good cosy. Bonus: fewer chilly breezes sneaking under the door means you can parade around in your slippers without fear of frostbite.
2. Smarten Up Your Thermostat
Gone are the days when you’d have to fiddle with a clunky dial on the wall, forever guessing at the ideal temperature. Enter the era of the smart thermostat. These nifty gadgets learn your schedule and preferences, automatically adjusting the temperature so you’re never heating an empty house. Think of it as having a personal butler who turns the heat on just before you get home—minus the expensive salary.
3. Zone Defence
Heating your entire home when you only really use the living room and bedroom is really unnecessary and really bad for the environment. If you have the option, consider fitting thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs). These allow you to control the temperature in each room individually, so you can keep your lounge toasty while saving energy in those neglected spaces (hello, spare room/junk room combo!).
4. The Mighty (and Well-Maintained) Boiler
Your boiler is basically the heart of your home’s heating system—treat it well, and it’ll reward you with reliable, efficient warmth. Schedule a regular boiler service to keep it ticking over smoothly. A well-maintained boiler isn’t just safer; it also slurps less energy, meaning you can crank up the heat with a bit less guilt (and expense). Give it some TLC, and it’ll return the favour in cosy vibes.
5. Embrace Alternative Heat Sources
Who says your entire heating strategy has to revolve around radiators? Consider layering up your warmth tactics. A log-burning stove (properly installed and responsibly sourced wood, of course) can add a charming glow to a room and reduce reliance on central heating. Alternatively, you might try an infrared panel or even an air source heat pump if you’re feeling particularly futuristic. Just don’t forget to keep the s’mores on standby for those toasty fireside evenings.
6. Work with Nature, Not Against It
Of course, nature itself is one of the best sources of heat…at least when it’s sunny out, so instead of closing your blinds or having curtains obscure your view of the outdoors, open them up and let the light stream in. Close the curtains (make them thick) once the sun goes down, and all of that lovely sun-generated heat will stay in your home where you need it, without you needing to use any additional sources of warmth, except maybe a blanket to snuggle under.
Green is warmer than you think!