The nights are drawing in and across the country boilers and stoves are getting lit for the winter, so it’s not surprising that October 1st was Central Heating day. It’s not surprising either that this is the time of year when energy bills start to stack up.Reducing heating costs is not only good for the pocket, it’s good for the planet, and there are lots of things you can do to keep warm without spending a fortune on fuel through the winter.
According to the Energy Savings Trust turning down the thermostat by one degree Celsius can shave eight per cent off heating costs.
If you are not brave enough to turn down the heating down a full degree or two in one go, try reducing the heat a small amount every day, you probably won’t notice the difference – at least until the utility bills come in. And if you have a timer, try setting it to come on half an hour later than last year.
Of course everyday energy efficiency is not just about central heating. Green Footsteps have a load of handy hints on how to keep your home cosy without impacting on your energy usage. For example, making use of thick curtains and soft furnishings for insulation, and some great ways to keep your kitchen nice and warm.
Hi Rory
ReplyDeletereally enjoyed your idiot's guide to saving pennies and saving the planet. Much as I'm a fan of old houses, I ended up buying a new house recently out of convenience. The difference in heating bills (better insulation, more efficient boiler etc) has been astounding. I really hope we can get round the problems Fran so eloquently explains in her posts (about accessing insulation etc in more remote areas),otherwise it'll be a continuing challenge. Keep up the good work on keeping us entertainingly informed!
Alison