As temperatures plummet across the UK, households are seeking clever alternatives to central heating to avoid staggering energy bills. The solution, as championed by money saving expert Martin Lewis, is simple: heat the person, not the home.
Affordable Personal Heating Solutions
One of the most effective methods is using an electric mattress topper. Available for as little as £30, these devices are fully customisable and provide a warm bed without the need to heat an entire room. Best of all, they cost just pennies to run, making them a cost-effective bedtime solution.
Similarly, electric blankets offer portable warmth. Reporter Danielle Kate Wroe tested the VonHaus Teal Heated Throw Blanket, which boasts nine heating settings. Incredibly, using this blanket for a month can cost approximately £3.15, providing serious savings on energy bills.
For those who suffer from cold extremities, a portable USB handwarmer could be the answer. This gadget charges quickly, lasts for ages, and provides targeted heat for cold hands and feet, whether you're at home or on the move.
Smart Home Insulation Tricks
Heating specialists at Plumbworld recommend a historical solution: the Victorian fix. This involves hanging heavy door curtains, known as portières, across draughty internal doorways and behind the front door. For maximum effect, pair them with a basic draught excluder at floor level to prevent cold air from creeping in.
Another expert tip comes from engineering lecturer Peter Brown, who advocates for radiator foil. This £7 product reflects heat back into your room, preventing it from being absorbed by external walls. Brown also suggests turning your thermostat down by just one degree to achieve further savings without a noticeable difference in comfort.
Innovative Cosy Footwear
If you're a slipper wearer, consider upgrading to heated slipper boots like those from CosyHeats. These innovative boots contain a microwaveable wheat bag insert, providing ultra-toasty warmth for your feet the moment you put them on. It's a simple yet effective way to maintain body heat without adjusting your home's temperature.
With these six practical strategies, you can navigate the winter months comfortably while keeping your energy consumption and costs to a minimum.
