warm home, small bill: winter prep to do in autumn

Preparing your home for winter during autumn can save you money on energy bills. Focus on insulating windows, servicing your heating system, and using draught excluders. A bit of effort now can mean a cosy home and reduced expenses when temperatures drop. Use these thrifty strategies to keep warm without overspending.

seal the warmth: window insulation

Insulate your windows to keep that precious warmth inside. Approximately 18% of heat loss occurs through windows, even in autumn. By using window insulation kits, which cost around £10-£15, you can reduce heat loss significantly. These kits often consist of a clear film that adheres to the window frame to create a barrier. It's a simple and effective method to cut down on heat leakage.

get ahead with heating system maintenance

Servicing your heating system in autumn ensures it's running efficiently when winter hits. This might cost £50-£80, but can save more in the long term by preventing energy wastage. An efficient heating system uses less energy to maintain a comfortable temperature, which means a lower energy bill. If you're considering changes, see our glossary for terms like "boiler efficiency" and "radiator bleeding".

use draught excluders

Draught excluders are an affordable way to prevent cold air from creeping in under doors. You can purchase them for as little as £5 each or even make your own using old clothes or towels. Placing these at exterior doors and less-used internal doors can keep rooms warmer without additional heating, reducing your overall energy consumption.

upgrade to energy-efficient curtains

Swapping to heavy, thermal-lined curtains can reduce heat loss through windows by up to 25%. Though an initial investment, they can be found for around £30-£40 per pair and often pay for themselves in one winter through energy savings. Close them at dusk to maximise warmth retention.

water heater efficiency

Lowering your water heater thermostat to 50°C can reduce energy usage without compromising comfort. This simple tweak can cut water heating costs by 5-10%. If you're unsure, read more about cutting household bills in practical ways.

consider a gentle subscription audit

If you're looking to save, conducting a gentle subscription audit can free up funds for necessary winter prep purchases. By reviewing and cancelling unused subscriptions, you can redirect these savings to energy-saving improvements, like thermal curtains or draught excluders.

compare heating methods

It pays to compare different heating methods. Electric heaters might be appealing, but they cost up to 50% more than gas on average. Opting for energy-efficient central heating can save significant amounts. Here's a rough comparison:

maximise natural light

Keep curtains open during the day to let in natural light, which can slightly raise room temperatures. Even a minor increase reduces heating needs, making it a simple, zero-cost strategy. On sunny days, this can make a noticeable difference, especially in south-facing rooms.