How to Keep Your Home Warm and Car Running This Winter – Without Breaking the Bank
Weather Alert
Cold Weather Hits the UK
With colder weather forecast this week for much of the country, temperatures are beginning to plummet after a mild start to autumn.
Earlier this morning, snow hit London with sleet blanketing the capital as an Arctic chill blasts Britain.
Drivers have reported getting stuck on roads, trains have been cancelled and warnings of more icy weather ahead have been issued as temperatures plunged to -11.2C.
Britons are also being told to expect icy patches on the roads and, as the cold flurries continue, a risk of power cuts and disruption to bus and train services.
On top of this, the temperature reading in the Scottish village of Braemar was described as the coldest Britain has been at this time of the year since 1998.
To combat this weather, millions of people across the UK will now be looking for ways to save money on their energy bills.
From getting your boiler serviced to bleeding your radiator and refilling engine oil, here are some of the most cost-effective ways to keep your home warm and car running this winter.
The Met Office has issued warnings for snow and ice across parts of Northern Ireland, Scotland, Northern England, and the Midlands. Pictured: Bradford, November 19
Temperatures are beginning to plummet after a mild start to autumn. Pictured: Liverpool, November 19
Cost-Effective Ways to Keep Your Home Warm
Bleed your radiators
One clever tip if you find your radiators are still stone cold after switching the heating could be to bleed them, according to an expert from MyBuilder.com.
In many cases, air bubbles might be blocking up the pipework and bleeding a radiator simply involves releasing the valve and letting the excess air out.
The heating does need to be turned off this process and you should use a tissue or rag underneath the valve to catch any water after the air has stopped hissing out, and close the valve as soon as water starts to come out.
Buying new windows
Another major source of heat loss in your home could be your ageing windows.
According to government statistics, 18 per cent of heat loss occurs through windows.
Also, seven per cent of UK homes have no double glazing – and single glazing is far less efficient.
It is worth getting a professional to assess the condition of your windows and consider the cost savings in the long term of upgrading.
Insulation
Good insulation is also brilliant for protecting your home from both hot and cold weather.
Lofts are a good place to start, as this is often where the most heat is lost, so it is well worth investing in.
Thermal curtains
If you don’t already have them, thermal curtains or blinds are also great for temperature control.
They are quick and easy to install with the right tools or the help of a handyman.
They can keep the warmth inside in winter, and keep the sun out in summer.
Get your boiler serviced
The last thing you need when the temperature plummets is to be without heating.
MyBuilder.com statistics recently showed that many UK homeowners are delaying getting their annual service due to the cost of living crisis, but it’s one area you can’t scrimp on.
Getting your boiler serviced ahead of cold weather ensures you will stay warm, and can prevent more costly issues with our boiler in the future.
Conclusion
As the cold weather sets in, it’s essential to take steps to keep your home warm and your car running without breaking the bank. By bleeding your radiators, upgrading your windows, insulating your home, using thermal curtains, and getting your boiler serviced, you can stay warm and cozy this winter while also saving money on your energy bills.
FAQs
Q: What is the best way to keep my home warm this winter?
A: The best way to keep your home warm this winter is to bleed your radiators, upgrade your windows, insulate your home, use thermal curtains, and get your boiler serviced.
Q: Why is it important to get my boiler serviced?
A: It’s essential to get your boiler serviced to ensure it’s working efficiently and to prevent costly issues in the future.
Q: How can I save money on my energy bills this winter?
A: You can save money on your energy bills this winter by taking steps to keep your home warm and energy-efficient, such as bleeding your radiators, upgrading your windows, and using thermal curtains.