In the midst of the British winter, when even your dog is giving you the side-eye for turning down the thermostat, staying warm becomes a matter of national importance. But hey, we’re Brits – we’re used to a bit of a chill, right? So, before you crank up the heat and watch your energy bill skyrocket faster than a firework on Guy Fawkes Night, let’s explore some of the very best ways to keep those heating costs down by lowering the thermostat temp, while still staying toasty warm at the same time. Sounds good, right?
Thermal Insulation Curtains Like a Coat for Your House
Thermal insulation curtains are the ideal companion to a cold home in the winter months. They’re a bit like a winter coat for your window when you think about it because these bad boys help keep the heat in and the cold out simply by hanging them over windows and/or doors, or making them an MVP in the quest for a warm home. Plus, they come in various styles, so you don’t have to sacrifice your chic decor for the sake of warmth, and you can even buy industrial thermal insulation curtains that are great for keeping garages, outdoor offices, and the likes, warm too, so even those traditionally cool spaces can be toasty warm.. It’s a win-win, really.
Layer Up: Channel Your Inner Onion
Just like onions (and ogres), layers are key to keeping warm when, baby, it’s cold outside. Pile on the clothing layers – we’re talking thermals, jumpers, the lot, and your thermostat will thank you for the break. This isn’t just a great way to stay warm; it’s also an excellent excuse to wear that hideous jumper Auntie Mabel knitted you last Christmas. Fashionable? Maybe not. Warm? Absolutely.
Let Hot Water Bottles Be Your Personal Cuddle Buddy
Never underestimate the power of a good old-fashioned hot water bottle to keep you warm. It’s like a portable heater that you can snuggle with, at a fraction of the cost of a high temp on the thermostat. Pop one in your bed before you get in, and it’s like slipping into a toasty slice of heaven. Just be sure not to fill it with boiling water, unless you fancy re-enacting a scene from a survival show.
Seal Drafts: It’s Like Weatherproofing Your Castle
Draft-proofing your home can be a game-changer. Look for gaps around windows, doors, and even keyholes. You can use weather strips, draft excluders (hello, sausage dog doorstop), or even a bit of DIY magic with some insulation tape. It’s like putting your house in a cosy bubble.
Rugs: More Than Just a Pretty Floor Accessory
If you have hardwood or tiled floors, rugs are your best friend when it comes to warm toes on those winter mornings. Not only do they add a pop of style to your room, but they also provide an extra layer of insulation. Plus, they save you from the shock of a cold floor in the morning – a sensation only slightly less unpleasant than stepping on a Lego.
Move Around
Get moving! Exercise is a fantastic way to warm up. A few star jumps, a quick dance around the living room, or even just some vigorous hoovering – not only does it get the blood pumping, but you also get to tick off your workout for the day. Who needs a gym membership when you’ve got house chores?
Reverse Ceiling Fans: It’s Not Witchcraft, It’s Science
If you have ceiling fans, run them in reverse (on a low setting). This nifty trick pushes warm air down and helps distribute heat more evenly throughout the room. It’s like having your very own indoor weather system.
Use the Oven and Bake Your Way to Warmth
Winter is the perfect excuse to get your bake on. Using the oven not only provides you with delicious treats like gingerbread and Christmas cake, but also warms up your kitchen and surrounding areas. It’s a tasty strategy for heat – just try not to eat all the cookies in one go.
Cuddle Up: The More, The Merrier
Don’t underestimate the power of body heat when it comes to warming you up on those frosty mornings. Cuddle up with your partner, your pet, or even a stuffed animal. It’s like a group huddle for warmth – and if it’s with your pet, you get the added bonus of furry snuggles.
Insulate Your Loft: Keep the Heat From Flying Away
A well-insulated loft can keep heat from escaping through the roof. It’s a bit like putting a hat on your house, and we all know a good hat is crucial in British weather. This tip might require a bit more investment, but it pays off in the long run.
Use Door Curtains to Keep it Hot
Hanging a curtain in front of external doors is an old-school trick but a good one. It adds an extra barrier to keep the warmth in and the cold out. Plus, it’s a great way to make an entrance – literally.
Warm Drinks: Your Deliciously Hot Companions
Last but not least, keep those warm drinks flowing whenever it feels a bit chilly. Tea, coffee, hot chocolate – pick your poison. It’s like an internal heating system that also happens to be delicious. And let’s face it, there’s nothing like a hot cup of tea or hot chocolate to make you feel comforted on those cold midwinter nights, right?
As you can see, if you are looking to save money, or even the planet by turning your thermostat down and using less energy there are lots of simple things you can do, even in the dead of winter, to keep yourself warm and your thermostat low.
Even just turning your thermostat down by a degree or two can make all the difference to your energy bills, and in conjunction with the above tips you really will not feel it on all but the most freezing of days, so what are you waiting for?
Disclosure: collaborative post
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