Tag: winter

Easy ways to keep your home warm in winter

Easy ways to keep your home warm in winter

Smart thermostats allow you to heat more efficiently, so you’re not heating your home when you don’t need to. Leaving your heating to kick in 30 minutes before you arise is more helpful than switching it on to maximum when you’re already chilly. Leaving your thermostat set to a fixed temperature instead of turning it up and down throughout the day can also reduce wasted energy.

Layer up – but not just your clothing

Dressing warmly is a given, of course, but insulating your home is just as important. Thick curtains, close-fitting rugs and draught excluders all help to stop heat loss. Thermal-lined heavy curtains stop warm air from escaping through the windows, while rugs give a secondary layer of protection to hard flooring. If you have a draughty doorway in particular, a thick material draught excluder can stop cold air sneaking in around the bottom of the door. It’s a small change, but one that’s a big help when it’s cold outside.

The magic of warm lighting

There’s something in winter that makes harsh, bright lights even harsher than usual. Soft, warm lighting is cosier, and curiously enough, it also warms a room up. Substitute cool-toned bulbs with warm white bulbs and put a few lamps or candles around to provide that cosy, snug glow. Battery-operated candles are a wonderful substitute if you love the flickering without concern for an open flame.

Keep the heat where you need it

It’s easy to forget unused rooms, but to heat a space you’re not in is just a waste of energy. Close doors to trap heat in places you’re in, and if you’ve a spare bedroom or unused dining room, turn down the radiator rather than heating an unused area.

Small gaps, big issue

Gaps around doors and windows can be small yet leak a surprising amount of heat. One quick check is to put a hand around window frames and doors – if you detect a draught of cold air, it’s time to seal them up. Self-adhesive draught strips are cheap to buy and simple to install and make a huge impact in keeping warm air in and cold air out. Letterboxes and keyholes can also be sneaky draught sources, so a simple escutcheon or a letterbox brush can put a stop to it.

Enhance insulation

Windows are also one of the biggest heat loss areas and, if you have substandard ones, you’ll never be warm enough in your house. Double glazing is a permanent option that not only keeps heat in, it keeps the noise out too and is more energy efficient. Getting new windows is not always possible in the short term, though – thermal curtains or secondary glazing film can give a short-term boost of added insulation.

Smart heating, smarter bills

Smart thermostats allow you to heat more efficiently, so you’re not heating when you don’t need to. Leaving your heating to kick in 30 minutes before you arise is more helpful than switching it on to maximum when you’re already chilly. Leaving your thermostat set to a fixed temperature instead of turning it up and down throughout the day can also reduce wasted energy.

Make the most of free heat

One of the simplest ways to keep your home warm in winter is to take advantage of the heat you already generate. Keep the oven door open after you’ve used it to enable heat to circulate around the kitchen. Let the sun do the work for you by keeping curtains open during the day to take in natural heat, closing them when night approaches to trap it in. All these little routines reap rewards without costing you a penny.

[disclosure*]

Hibernate in style with a cosy living space this winter

Hibernate in style with a cosy living space this winter

A cosy living space is essential in winter when it gets colder. However, you may be put off because it involves making some changes. But don’t worry, the changes you need to make for winter style and comfort are minimal, and you can transform your home into a warm place.

Keep a comfortable temperature

Of course, the key to a warm home is, well, warmth. Controlling the temperature is something of a challenge in some cases as there are many variables. And then there’s the rising cost. However, checking and maintaining loft insulation is powerful. Ensure the insulation is fluffy and isn’t obstructed by stuff in the attic. Also, set an ambient temperature on the thermostat to around 21°C. This is a more efficient way to stay warm than blasting the heating.

Create the right ambiance

On the style and atmosphere side of things, creating the right ambience in winter is vital for feeling cosy. You have some help because the days are shorter, and it gives you an excuse to break out the mood lighting and candles. LED lights are excellent for creating a cosy atmosphere and layering the illumination throughout the home. You can further add to this with candles. Candles are warming anyway, and strategic placement adds depth to the lighting around the house.

Cosy living space with textures

Textures are often overlooked when we try to create an inviting space, but they play a valuable role in making a room feel inviting and comfortable. Your living space should be somewhere you want to cuddle up and enjoy yourself. 28% of people love cuddling in bed, but a comfy living room is just as good. So how do you do this? Soft blankets and chunky knits will keep the chill off when cosying up through winter. Rugs also help keep the room and floor a little warmer, too.

What about seasonal senses?

There’s a lot more to the space you live in than what you immediately see. The comfiest space appeals to multiple senses with sight, smell and sound. You may not need to decorate, but adding seasonal colours of winter helps keep the feeling. Warming earthy tones work best when it’s cold. But what about scents? Fragrances of winter, such as cinnamon, cloves and citrus, instantly make the space more inviting. And don’t forget about Christmas songs to get you in the holiday mood.

Don’t forget about function

Winter comes with extra needs because the temperature can drop quickly. This means the things we need could take up space. However, you can make use of storage options and make them part of your winter decor. For example, ottomans look stylish and offer useful space for storing blankets. Fireplace storage for coal and wood logs instantly reminds us of the winter with either a contemporary or traditional design. And there’s nothing quite like a woven basket for keeping your extra snugly throws and cushions.

Summary

Maintaining a comfortable temperature helps with creating a cosy living space this winter. Textures also play a big role in creating comfort. Functional storage adds to the décor while hiding away the surplus comfy stuff.

[disclosure*]

Top home management tips to help you get through this winter

Top home management tips to help you get through this winter

Winter’s here again and, honestly, it’s a mixed bag, isn’t it? Sure, there’s hot chocolate, fuzzy socks and fairy lights. But there’s also the battle to keep your home warm and running smoothly when it feels like the weather is out to get you – which we really think it is, considering how cold it is already… It’s only NOVEMBER!

Keep your heating system in top condition

Your heating system is going to save the day a few times this winter, so you need to give it the attention it deserves. If it’s on the blink, everything feels harder. Get someone in to give it a once-over before things get really cold – so, do it quick! A quick check could save you from a mid-January meltdown (yours, not the boiler’s). And if you have a smart thermostat, even better. Saving yourself time and effort and the environment – triple win!

Winter-proof your windows and doors

Ever felt a chilly breeze in your living room and realised it’s coming from that tiny gap by the window? It’s such a sneaky heat thief. Fix it! And fix it fast. Grab some weatherstripping or draft excluders. They’re cheap and weirdly satisfying to apply. Bonus points for heavy curtains – they’re complete game-changers for anyone with less than triple-glazed windows. Suddenly, your house feels like a snug little cocoon instead of a fridge.

Create a seasonal cleaning routine

Winter mess is a special kind of chaos. Muddy wellies, wet coats, random pine needles from the tree, there are endless mess-makers that come with winter. And it piles up fast. Create a mini system for dealing with it. A shoe rack by the door, a basket for scarves and gloves and maybe a little hand held vacuum cleaner for quick clean-ups. And if it doesn’t get done? No guilt. It’s winter. You’re allowed to let some things slide.

Stock up on essential supplies

Icy roads and late deliveries aren’t fun. Why risk it? Think ahead – stock up on whatever you use most. It’s not about hoarding, it’s about having enough tea bags, tissues and pasta to ride out a freezing and wet few days without panicking. Oh, check your emergency stash too. Torches with dead batteries are useless, and you’ll thank yourself later when you have everything sorted when the first long stretch of cold, wet weather sets in.

Maximise energy efficiency

Lastly, let’s talk about your energy bills. They’re always lurking, but winter makes them feel a lot scarier than they need to be. Start with the basics – layers, thick socks and maybe even a hot water bottle. Old-school, but it works. And if you’re trying to keep costs under control, look into a cheap prepayment energy supplier. They’re worth considering if you like having more control over what you’re spending. No one likes surprises, especially with Christmas around the corner.

Final thoughts

Winter isn’t all bad. Sure, it’s cold, wet and dark, but it’s also an excuse to slow down and focus on what makes you happy at home. With these home management tips, you can keep the stress levels low and the cosiness quotient very high.

[disclosure*]

Beat the chill: Getting your central heating system ready for winter

Beat the chill: Getting your central heating system ready for winter

As the days get shorter and the air turns crisp, the thought of cosy evenings by a warm fire becomes increasingly appealing. But before you can fully enjoy the comfort of your heated home, it’s crucial to ensure your central heating system is ready to tackle the colder months ahead.

Neglecting your heating system can lead to costly breakdowns, inefficient heating and uncomfortable living conditions. So, take a proactive approach and follow these steps to get your central heating system ready for winter.

1. Bleed your radiators

Air trapped in your radiators can hinder their ability to heat efficiently. Bleeding your radiators releases this air, allowing them to fill with water and distribute heat effectively. If you’re unsure how to bleed a radiator, there are plenty of helpful online guides and videos available.

2. Check your boiler pressure

Your boiler needs to be at the correct pressure to function optimally. Consult your boiler manual for the recommended pressure range. If the pressure is too low, you can top it up using the filling loop. If it’s too high, you may need to bleed some water from the system.

3. Inspect your boiler and controls

Take some time to visually inspect your boiler for any signs of damage or wear and tear. Check for leaks, corrosion or any unusual noises. Also, ensure your thermostat and timer are working correctly, allowing you to program your heating schedule effectively.

4. Clean or replace filters

Your boiler and heating system will have filters that trap dust and debris, preventing them from clogging your system. Clean or replace these filters regularly, as recommended by the manufacturer. This simple step can significantly improve your heating efficiency and prolong the life of your system.

5. Consider a service

A professional boiler service can help identify any potential problems before they escalate into costly repairs. A qualified engineer can carry out a thorough inspection, clean the boiler components and ensure your system is safe and running efficiently.

6. Insulate your pipes

Uninsulated pipes can lose heat, affecting the overall efficiency of your central heating system. Consider insulating any exposed pipes, particularly those located in unheated areas, to reduce heat loss and save energy.

Beyond maintenance

  • Consider smart thermostats: These adaptable devices allow you to control your heating system remotely and optimise energy consumption.
  • Regularly check for leaks: Small leaks can quickly escalate into bigger problems; address any issues promptly.
  • Understand your heating system: Familiarise yourself with your boiler’s manual and the basic workings of your central heating system.

By taking these steps, you can ensure your central heating system is in top condition for the winter months. You’ll enjoy a warm and comfortable home while minimising the risk of unexpected breakdowns and maximising your energy efficiency.

Don’t wait until the first chill hits – prepare your central heating system ready for winter today!