Around 20 million households will receive a £100 "household energy payment" this winter, announced by Chancellor John Healey during his Budget speech on October 28, 2026, as part of a £2.6 billion support scheme to help families manage rising energy costs.
With temperatures falling and energy use set to increase, homeowners are being encouraged to take simple steps now to keep their homes warmer. New customer data from Anglian Home Improvements shows that eliminating draughts is a priority for 75% of customers looking to upgrade their windows and doors, based on more than 20,000 Anglian orders over a 12-month period.
Practical steps before winter peaks
Rachael Munby, Chief Marketing Officer at Anglian Home Improvements, says: "As temperatures fall, winter is often when problems such as persistent draughts and poorly performing windows and doors become much more noticeable. Homeowners shouldn't wait for the coldest days to make a change."
She adds that a few simple changes can help keep warmth in where it is needed, while checking the condition of windows and doors now can help identify whether a longer-term improvement is worth considering.
Six ways to keep your home warm
1. Make the most of sunlight - Keep curtains and blinds open during daylight hours, particularly when rooms are getting direct sunlight, before closing them as the temperature drops. Rachael says: "Opening curtains during sunny periods and closing them as daylight fades is such a simple thing to do, but it can help make the most of the warmth entering your home. Heavier or thermal-lined curtains can also provide an additional barrier against colder air around windows, although they shouldn't be relied upon to solve persistent draughts."
2. Find and fix draughts - Rachael says: "Unwanted draughts undermine heating efforts, forcing further strain on boilers and radiators to maintain a comfortable temperature." She recommends checking around windows, doors, letterboxes, keyholes, loft hatches, skirting boards and floorboards for gaps. Sealant strips, keyhole or letterbox covers and draught excluders are simple fixes. "Draught-proofing is one of the most cost-effective home improvements homeowners can make," she said, while advising not to block intentional ventilation spots such as trickle vents.
3. Give radiators room to work - Large furniture such as sofas, wardrobes and beds can block warm air from circulating. Rachael says: "A quick room-by-room assessment and switch of layout can make a surprising difference. Meanwhile, reflective radiator foil is easy to install and can help direct heat back into rooms rather than allow it to escape through external walls." Bleeding radiators can also help them heat the home more efficiently.
4. Shut the door - "Another simple habit that can help preserve warmth is keeping internal doors shut. Closing doors can help contain heat to rooms being used, rather than allowing it to drift into hallways, staircases or other unused spaces," adds Rachael.
5. Adding layers - Rachael advises: "Adding rugs can make hard floors feel more comfortable underfoot, while an extra throw can add warmth and a feeling of cosiness at night. Similarly, layering bedding with additional blankets can provide extra insulation without immediately reaching for the thermostat."
6. Check windows and doors - For homeowners dealing with persistent draughts and heat loss, older windows may be contributing to higher energy consumption. "Investing in modern double, triple or secondary glazing can provide long-term benefits to comfort, efficiency and household bills," says Rachael. Homeowners can save up to £1,800 on their energy bills over 10 years by replacing older pre-2002 uPVC double-glazing with modern A-rated windows in a detached property.
Act before winter arrives
Rachael concludes: "With energy costs continuing to be a major concern for homeowners, now is the time to act."
Whether it's simple draught-proofing measures, rearranging furniture or investing in more energy-efficient windows and doors, making improvements before winter arrives can help homeowners feel warmer, more comfortable and better prepared for the colder months ahead.
