As winter tightens its grip and temperatures plummet towards freezing, many households across the UK are facing a familiar and costly struggle. Despite cranking up the thermostat, a persistent chill lingers in the air, accompanied by soaring energy bills that offer little comfort.
The Hidden Culprits Stealing Your Home's Warmth
According to Chloe Barrow, an interior expert from Laura James, the problem often lies not with the heating system itself, but with overlooked issues within our homes. She has identified four key areas that could be sabotaging your comfort and budget.
1. The Drafts Under Your Feet
While most people diligently check windows and doors for drafts, many forget to look down. Poorly insulated floorboards are a major source of cold air infiltration.
"Another hidden culprit is poorly insulated floorboards. We always remember to check doors and windows but floorboards are so often forgotten," Barrow explained. "Even a small draft can counteract the effect of central heating, making your home feel colder than it should."
To identify the problem, she suggests running a hand along the gaps in your wooden floors. If you feel a chill, inexpensive solutions like draught-proofing tape or sealant can work wonders. For larger gaps, consider using a floor filler or a traditional draught excluder.
2. Furniture and Curtains Blocking Heat
Your interior design choices could be the enemy of a cosy room. Placing furniture or long curtains too close to radiators is a common mistake that prevents heat from circulating properly.
"While it might seem practical to have furniture near a heat source, these items can actually absorb a significant amount of warmth that would otherwise circulate through the room," Barrow cautioned.
The same principle applies to curtains. When draped over a radiator, they trap heat behind the fabric. For maximum efficiency, Barrow recommends rearranging furniture to leave a few inches of clearance around radiators and ensuring that heavy curtains end just above the radiator, not covering it.
3. Incorrect Thermostat Settings
Many homeowners are costing themselves money by constantly adjusting their thermostat. The key to efficiency and comfort is maintaining a consistent, moderate temperature.
"This is a time many of us in the home and interiors industry know about, but it’s so often forgotten or not considered by the general public," Barrow noted.
Investing in a smart thermostat can offer more precise control, helping to maintain a comfortable temperature without wasting energy through constant manual adjustments.
4. Period Homes and Poor Insulation
Owners of character properties face a particular challenge. Period homes are often plagued by inconsistent insulation in walls and loft spaces, leading to significant heat loss.
"Even with the heating on, a home can lose up to 35% of its warmth through poorly insulated areas," Barrow revealed.
For those suspecting insulation is the primary issue, consulting a specialist is the best course of action. While it is an investment, Barrow points out that many UK homeowners may be eligible for grants or subsidies to make adding insulation more affordable, calling it one of the best long-term investments for a warm, energy-efficient home.
By addressing these four often-overlooked areas, you can reclaim your home's warmth and protect your wallet from the bite of winter heating bills.
