In winter it is common to have the heating on all day, especially in a country as cold as the UK. Now with the pandemic we are spending more time indoors and it is important to be warm and comfortable.
But at what cost do we do this?
It is important to find the right balance between our comfort, keeping costs down and wasting energy. For this reason, it is worth remembering a few tips to avoid unpleasant surprises when the bill arrives.
The ideal temperature, where we do not feel cold or hot, when we are at home in winter varies depending on the type of activity we do, the clothes we wear or the thermal sensation of each person.
In general, it is estimated that we should be at home in long sleeves with a daytime temperature of 21-23°C, while at night or when the house is empty it can drop to 17°C. Except in homes with babies or small children and in mountainous or particularly cold areas.
The comfort temperature is conditioned by two variables: the outside temperature and the relative humidity. The higher the humidity, the colder it feels. The ideal and healthy solution for the occupants of the house and for the planet is to obtain the maximum benefit with the minimum possible energy expenditure.
How do you avoid heating on all day?
- Insulate your home well with external wall insulation
- Check that windows and doors close properly
- Turn down the thermostat
- Make the most of natural daylight and sunshine.
- Schedule your heating
- Keep heat sources clear of obstacles: don’t cover the heating with furniture or clothes.
- Clean fan grilles well so that they work at their best.
- Use blinds and curtains to trap heat. The heavier the fabric, the more it keeps the heat from escaping through the windows.
- Close doors to prevent cold air from escaping from empty rooms.
- Turn off the heating in empty rooms and close the door.
