Keeping yourself warm is an important
part of ensuring you stay well over winter
Some of these tips may seem obvious but they can make a big difference when it comes to reducing your fuel bill.
Heating your home
Heating your home to at least 18°C in winter poses minimal risk to your health when you are wearing suitable clothing. This temperature is particularly important if you have reduced mobility, are 65 and over, or have a health condition, such as heart or lung disease. Having room temperatures slightly over 18°C could be good for your health.
- If you are under the age of 65, active and wearing appropriate clothing, you may wish to keep your home at a comfortable temperature even if it is slightly lower than 18°C.
- Overnight, people who are 65 and over or who have pre-existing health conditions, may find bedroom temperatures of at least 18°C are good for their health; this may be less important if you are a healthy adult under 65 and have appropriate clothing and bedding.
If you can’t heat all the rooms you use, heat the living room during the day and your bedroom just before you go to bed. Remember to close curtains and shut doors to keep heat in the rooms you use most.
Keeping the heat in
- Insulating your home not only keeps you warm but will also help to keep your energy costs down.
- Fit draught proofing to seal any gaps around windows and doors.
- Make sure that your loft has at least 10-11 inches (270 mm) of insulation. Any home with 4 inches (100 mm) or less should have it topped up.
- If you have wall cavities, make sure that they are insulated too.
- Insulate your hot water cylinder and pipes.
- Draw your curtains at dusk to help keep the heat generated inside your rooms.
- Make sure that your radiators are not obstructed by curtains or furniture.
