Keeping your home warm during winter is becoming increasingly important as temperatures fall and energy costs remain high. According to recent BBC reporting, energy bills are still significantly higher than before the COVID-19 pandemic, which means many households face rising costs and colder homes. Staying warm is not only about comfort: cold indoor temperatures can worsen respiratory issues, increase the risk of illness, and affect vulnerable groups such as older adults, young children, and those with medical conditions.
Fortunately, there are many effective and affordable ways to keep your home warmer while reducing heat loss. This guide brings together expert advice and practical methods from British Gas, BBC News and other trusted sources to help you stay comfortable all winter.
Cold homes contribute to several health risks, including:
With higher energy prices and harsh winter weather, understanding how to keep your home warm efficiently is essential for both health and financial well-being.
Seal Draughts Around Windows, Doors and Chimneys
Draughts are one of the biggest causes of heat loss, especially in older homes. Sealing gaps around windows and doors using draught-proofing strips, tape or excluders can significantly improve warmth. If you have an unused chimney, blocking the opening with a suitable draught stopper helps prevent cold air entering the room.
Use Radiator Reflector Panels or Foil
Placing reflector panels or simple household foil behind radiators helps bounce heat back into the room instead of letting it escape through external walls. This inexpensive method warms rooms more quickly and keeps heat circulating inside.
Add Rugs or Carpets to Hard Floors
Hard flooring such as wood, laminate or tile can draw heat away and make rooms feel colder. Using rugs is an easy and affordable way to add insulation and retain warmth.
Close Curtains at Night and Open Them During the Day
Windows allow a lot of heat to escape once the sun goes down. Closing curtains in the evening helps trap warmth, while opening them during daylight hours lets natural sunlight heat your home for free. Thermal curtains can boost this effect even further.
Check and Maintain Radiators
Radiators should heat evenly from top to bottom. If the top feels cold, trapped air may be restricting warm water flow. Bleeding your radiators ensures they work efficiently. Also avoid blocking radiators with furniture or long curtains, as this prevents heat from circulating properly.
Heat Only the Rooms You Use
There is no need to heat your entire home all day. Turning off radiators in unused rooms can reduce energy consumption and help maintain consistent warmth where you spend the most time.
Most homes remain comfortable at temperatures between 18°C and 21°C. Lowering the thermostat by even one degree can reduce heating costs. For vulnerable individuals, including older adults and young children, keeping room temperatures at a minimum of around 18°C is advised.
Dress Warmly and Use Layers Indoors
Simple habits such as wearing warm clothing, using hot-water bottles, or keeping blankets nearby can help you stay warm without increasing heating levels.
While small changes make an immediate difference, investing in larger improvements can keep your home warmer for years:
Some households may qualify for government grants or energy-efficiency support schemes, making these upgrades more affordable.
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