Energy bills are skyrocketing for everyone. As a result, many people are trying to find ways to use less heating to save costs. Below are just a few ways in which you can keep your home warm without having to reach for the thermostat as often. 

Insulation helps prevent heat escaping your home, keeping your home warmer longer. Many modern homes are well-insulated, but older homes tend to lack insulation. While it can be expensive to install insulation, it’s often a worthwhile investment in older homes, saving you a lot of money in energy in the long run. Heat tends to rise, so an uninsulated loft can often be the biggest source of heat loss. Consider investing in some insulation for your roof or loft to trap heat. There are DIY options you can look into to save money, or you can hire an insulation expert to do it for you. The next biggest culprit is windows and doors. When it comes to windows, consider the glass and the frames. If the frames are old and worn and the glass is single paned, consider upgrading to new casement windows with double glazing. As for your exterior doors, get rid of any old worn wooden doors and replace them with aluminium or fibreglass. 

On top of stopping hot air from getting out, it’s important to stop cold air from getting in. Cracks, holes and gaps in your home will help to let in draughts and need to be sealed up. There are a few different draught-proofing measures worth taking. Start by sealing up any major cracks in your walls. Next, consider your window frames and door frames. If you can feel air coming through your windows or doors, consider installing new windows/doors or adding new seals. It’s worth also noting that if your home has an unused chimney, this should be blocked up - this could also have a big impact on keeping cold air out. 

Even with double glazing, heat will slowly be lost through your windows. To keep rooms warm in winter, consider hanging up thick curtains that will serve as a barrier. There are many thick winter curtains that you can buy that are made for this purpose. Another option to consider could be shutters, which can also provide added window insulation. 

The likes of stone tiles and laminate flooring tend to get cold quickly in winter. While wearing slippers is one way to keep your feet warm, another option is to place rugs in areas where you may be sitting or standing for long periods such as under a sofa or desk. Certain sofa materials like leather can also get cold in winter. Consider buying sofa throws, blankets and fluffy cushions to help keep sofas warm. You can also invest in extra bedding to keep your bed warm.

If you’re used to walking around your home in nothing but your underpants, consider whether this is the reason why you reach for the thermostat so often. While you shouldn’t have to dress up in a winter coat in your own home, you can save money by wearing a few extra layers such as a jumper or a onesie. It’s the simplest way to stay warm.

None of these measures will keep you as warm as cranking up the central heating. However, they can all help you in reducing your energy bills by encouraging you to use your heating less.