As winter tightens its grip and energy bills continue their relentless climb, households across the UK are seeking effective ways to stay warm without facing financial hardship. The challenge of maintaining a cosy home during the colder months has become a primary concern for many families.
The 10p-a-Day Warmth Solution
According to indoor living specialists Vonhaus, a simple and highly efficient solution lies in investing in a heated blanket. Laura Bradbury, Head of eCommerce at Vonhaus, highlights their growing popularity, noting that many are now opting for heated throws instead of activating their central heating systems prematurely.
She explained that these blankets are not only versatile and affordable but also remarkably efficient. The financial benefit is clear: operating a 50-watt heated blanket for eight hours will cost a mere 10p per day, which accumulates to approximately £3.15 per month.
Target Your Heating for Maximum Savings
Another key strategy for reducing energy expenditure is to heat only the spaces you are actively using, rather than warming the entire property. Vonhaus suggests employing a portable heater or an oil-filled radiator for this purpose.
These devices heat up quickly and, in the case of oil-filled radiators, retain warmth for a period after being switched off. The running cost is estimated at 20-30p per hour, depending on the setting. For optimal efficiency, ensure these heaters are positioned away from large furniture and curtains to allow heat to circulate, and keep doors closed to trap the warm air.
Stop Heat From Escaping Your Home
A significant amount of warmth is lost through unnoticed draughts creeping in under doors, around windows, and through letterboxes. This not only makes rooms feel colder but also forces your heating devices to work harder, increasing your bills.
Fortunately, this issue can be addressed with simple, low-cost solutions. Using items like foam strips, door brushes, and letterbox seals—most costing less than a morning coffee—can lead to substantial savings. Proper draught-proofing can save between £60 and £100 annually on heating expenses.
Laura Bradbury advises targeting corridors and older windows first, as these typically have the largest gaps. Once sealed, rooms will heat up more rapidly and retain their temperature for longer durations. She describes it as one of the simplest and most effective pre-winter jobs, where a small investment can make a dramatic difference to a room's comfort.
