As the winter chill settles in, keeping your home warm and cosy becomes a top priority. However, staying comfortable shouldn’t mean facing sky-high energy bills. With a few simple changes, you can winter-proof your home, saving money and energy while keeping the cold firmly at bay.
At Direct Savings, we specialise in helping homes stay warmer and more energy-efficient. Here are our top five tips to help you prepare for the colder months ahead.
1. Insulate, Insulate, Insulate!
Did you know that a poorly insulated home can lose up to 25% of its heat through the roof and 35% through the walls? Insulation is one of the most effective ways to reduce heat loss and cut down on energy bills.
Loft Insulation: Prevents heat from escaping through your roof, making your home feel noticeably warmer.
Cavity Wall Insulation: Reduces heat loss through external walls, particularly in older properties.
Underfloor Insulation: Blocks cold draughts from rising through floors, especially on the ground level.
Not sure about the state of your home’s insulation? Contact Direct Savings for a free survey and expert advice tailored to your property.
2. Seal Those Draughts
Draughts are a common culprit when it comes to losing heat. Cold air often sneaks in through gaps around windows, doors, and chimneys. Sealing these gaps is a simple way to keep your home warmer and reduce heating costs.
Weatherstripping: Apply weatherstripping tape to windows and doors to block gaps.
Draught Excluders: Place draught excluders at the base of doors to stop the chill.
Chimney Solutions: If your fireplace isn’t in use, consider fitting a chimney balloon to prevent heat loss.
Sealing draughts can reduce heat loss by up to 10%, offering a cost-effective way to stay warm.
3. Upgrade Your Heating System
If your heating system is outdated or inefficient, it could be adding unnecessary costs to your energy bills. Upgrading to a modern boiler or installing smart heating controls can make a significant difference.
Smart Thermostats: These allow you to programme your heating schedule and control it remotely, ensuring you only use energy when needed.
Radiator Maintenance: Bleed your radiators to release trapped air and improve their efficiency.
At Direct Savings, we ensure your home upgrades—such as insulation—work hand-in-hand with your heating system for maximum efficiency.
4. Let Natural Light Warm Your Home
Even in winter, natural sunlight can help warm your home during the day. Taking advantage of this free heat source can make your space feel cosier.
Open Curtains: Keep curtains open during the day to let in sunlight and naturally heat your rooms.
Close Curtains at Night: Close curtains once the sun sets to trap warmth inside and keep the cold out.
Clean Windows: Ensure windows are clean to maximise the amount of light and warmth entering your home.
5. Take Advantage of Energy Efficiency Schemes
Worried about the cost of home improvements? You may be eligible for support through schemes like the ECO4. These initiatives make it easier for homeowners and tenants to improve their property’s energy efficiency without the high upfront cost.
At Direct Savings, we guide you through these schemes, from assessing your eligibility to completing your installation. Get in touch to find out how we can help you make your home winter-ready!
Why Winter-Proofing Your Home Matters
Winter-proofing your home isn’t just about lowering energy bills. It’s about creating a warm, comfortable environment for your family while reducing your carbon footprint. Small changes made today can lead to significant savings and a more sustainable future.
This winter, let Direct Savings help you keep the cold at bay. From expert insulation services to guidance on government-backed schemes, we’re here to ensure your home stays warmer, greener, and more affordable.
Contact us today to arrange your free insulation survey and take the first step towards a cosier, energy-efficient home this winter.