Energy saving tips to keep you feeling cosy this winter

Hydration Helps Heat You Up:

It might seem counterintuitive, but staying hydrated can actually make you feel warmer during the winter months. Even if you don’t feel thirsty, it’s a good idea to remember to drink water throughout the day. Dehydration can lead to feeling chilly and sluggish, so keep your water bottle close by! Source: NHS (UK) – Dehydration

Layer Up for Warmth:

Layering your clothing is more effective than wearing one bulky item. Multiple thin layers trap warm air, providing better insulation and allowing you to adjust to changing temperatures. Consider starting with a moisture-wicking base layer, adding a fleece or wool layer for insulation, and finishing with a weather-resistant outer layer. Source: NHS (UK) – Keep Warm, Keep Well

The layering principle also applies to bedding. This is a great way to stay warm and comfortable throughout the winter months.

Make the most of natural sunlight!

Open your curtains and blinds during the day to let the sun warm your home. Then, as soon as it starts to get dark, close them up again to trap that warmth inside.

Hot Water Bottle Safety Check:

A hot water bottle is a cheap and easy way to stay warm. But did you know that hot water bottles have an expiration date? Check the daisy wheel for the manufacture date – most should be replaced after 3 years. Also, inspect it for cracks, fading, or thinning. These are signs of wear and tear that could lead to leaks or bursts. Source: Money Saving Expert – Hot water bottles

Additional general energy tips

With the current cost of energy, there may be ways to reduce your monthly bills by:

• Switching off lights when you leave a room
• Using low energy LED bulbs
• If you’re replacing an appliance, consider an energy efficient A rated model
• Washing clothes at 30 degrees, this can save as much as 40% compared to washing at higher temperatures
• Being aware of how long you’re running an electric shower for – they are one of the biggest users of energy
• Using a microwave rather than an oven is cheaper as it takes less time and uses less energy. Slow cookers and batch cooking can also be energy efficient
• Unplugging or switching off devices at the wall, rather than leaving them on standby
• Only charging devices for as long as necessary
• Controlling central heating as much as possible to make sure you have heat when you need it
• Putting draft excluders around draughty doors and windows.

Cleaning extractor fans

Cleaning your extractor fans regularly can help improve their efficiency. Fans can be cleaned by following these steps:

• Make sure the extractor fan is switched off/unplugged from its power source
• Remove the filter cover – these can usually be unscrewed or simply lifted off
• Remove any filters and set them to one side
• Clean the inside of the unit using a damp sponge or cloth with warm soapy water
• Clean the filter with warm soapy water too
• Allow the filters to fully dry and then reassemble the unit
• Plug it in and switch back on to test.

Remember not to use an abrasive material that could potentially damage the unit.

Extractor fans are very energy efficient and leaving them on will help reduce condensation.