Cost-Effective Ways to Add Extra Heat to Your Home

Enhancing your home's heating efficiency is not only about comfort; it is also a practical way to save money and reduce energy consumption, especially with the cost of living and fuel prices in the UK today. If you are looking for ideas or cost-effective solutions to boost or make your existing central heating more efficient, read below for some suggestions and cheap methods to consider to stay a bit warmer for less. 

1. Bleed and Balance Your Radiators

Radiators are a key component of central heating systems, but over time, they can become less effective. Trapped air prevents them from heating evenly, leading to cold spots and wasted energy. Bleeding radiators is a straightforward process: simply use a radiator key to release trapped air, turn the key slowly and wait for the hissing to stop until water starts to flow steadily.

Balancing your radiators involves adjusting their valves to ensure even heat distribution across all rooms. This is particularly important in larger homes where heat can sometimes fail to reach distant radiators. Regular maintenance like this not only improves efficiency but also ensures you are getting the most out of your heating system.

For a comprehensive guide on maintaining radiators and top tips to reduce your heating bills, visit Which?.

2. Add Reflective Foil Behind Radiators

Installing reflective foil behind radiators is a simple but effective way to retain heat. The foil reflects heat back into the room, preventing it from being absorbed by the walls. This is especially useful for radiators located on external walls, where heat loss can be significant.

Reflective foil can be purchased cheaply from DIY stores and installed in minutes. For maximum effect, make sure the foil is positioned securely and as close to the radiator as possible.

3. Use Thermal Curtains and Draught Excluders

Windows and doors are common culprits for heat loss. Thermal curtains, which have an insulated lining, help to trap warmth inside and keep cold air out. Close your curtains when the sun sets to retain the heat gained during the day.

Draught excluders are another effective way to seal gaps around doors and windows. These simple tools come in various forms, from adhesive foam strips around the door frame to a furry log cushion.

For tips for saving energy during colder weather, check out Energy Saving Trust.

4. Insulate outdoors and indoors

Insulating your pipes and water tanks, also known as lagging, is a quick and affordable way to improve heating efficiency. Pipe insulation minimizes heat loss as hot water travels through your heating system. It also reduces the risk of pipes freezing during colder months, which can lead to costly repairs. Pay particular attention if you have an outdoor condensate pipe connected to your indoor boiler; if this freezes, your boiler will stop working, so it should definitely be insulated with antifreeze pipe insulation.

Water tank jackets are another essential addition, particularly for older homes with uninsulated tanks. These jackets retain heat within the tank, keeping water warmer for longer and reducing the demand on your boiler.

While central heating provides the main source of warmth, its efficiency depends on how well your home retains heat. Insulating walls, lofts, and floors is one of the most effective ways to improve energy efficiency. Even smaller upgrades, such as sealing gaps around pipework or fitting letterbox brushes, can make a big difference.

5. Consider Secondary Heating Sources

Secondary heating sources, such as portable heaters, can provide targeted warmth in specific areas of your home. Oil-filled radiators and ceramic heaters are ideal for smaller spaces or rooms that are rarely used. Using these devices selectively in cold spots or where you constantly need warmth (home office) can be more energy-efficient than heating the entire house with central heating.

Modern portable heaters are designed to be energy-efficient and come with features like timers, thermostats, and eco modes to minimize electricity usage. To make the most of these heaters, only use them in occupied rooms and avoid leaving them on overnight.

6. DIY Heating Hacks: Safety First

Creative DIY solutions, such as using candles and terracotta pots to create a makeshift heater, have gained popularity in recent years. While these hacks may provide a small amount of additional warmth, they should be approached with caution. Always prioritize safety by ensuring proper ventilation and never leaving candles or open flames unattended.

Instead, consider safer DIY options, such as making your draught excluders or using rugs to insulate wooden floors. Layering soft furnishings, such as throws and blankets, can also help retain warmth and add a cosy touch to your home.

Heated blankets/throws are a great way of keeping yourself warm if you don’t want to heat the whole house, they consume minimal electricity, around 3p per hour of usage. However, always check the label to ensure it bears a safety mark, guaranteeing its suitability for use.

7. Optimise Your Heating System with Smart Technology

Smart thermostats are revolutionising the way we heat our homes. These devices allow you to control your heating remotely via a smartphone app, ensuring that your home is warm only when needed. Many smart thermostats learn your schedule over time, optimizing heating patterns to reduce energy waste.

In addition, smart radiator valves provide room-by-room control, enabling you to focus heat on the areas you use most. This level of precision can significantly lower your energy bills while keeping your home comfortable.

Read Smart thermostats explained by Uswitch for more info.