Winter came knocking this week
AS storms lashing the Carribean and North America, winter also made its presence felt here this week as temperatures dropped and the rain had that cold sting to it that says only one thing - summer’s over and winter’s on the way.
This abrupt change in the weather focused our thoughts on preparing for the long winter months ahead when the prevailing trend will most likely be wind, rain, snow, and more of the same!.
There is nothing like a cosy warm home to offset the effects of the long cold winter months, and nowadays consumers are spoiled for choice regarding the methods of heating they decide to use, and the steps they take to ensure their homes are adequately prepared for the cold weather.
Taking time to assess your winter heating requirements makes sound economic sense, especially with the relentless spiralling costs of most fuels. In an ideal world, all home owners should have a BER certificate which could offer some solutions to energy problems, and thereby save a lot of expense on heating bills.
A Building Energy Rating Cert is an indication of the energy performance of a home. The certificate is accompanied by an Advisory Report which identifies how energy performance in the home can be improved.
BER is the calculated energy used for space, and hot water heating, ventilation and lighting, based on standard occupancy.
Individual taste dictates the type of heating chosen by home owners. Statistics indicate that open fires are the least economical because a large percentage of the heat goes straight up the chimney.
Stoves have become incredibly popular and come in all shapes, sizes, and colours. Models which burn solid fuel, oil, gas, or wood pellets are available, with the latter becoming increasingly popular as it generates strong heat using a sustainable environmentally friendly fuel which is also cost effective.
Oil fired central heating and gas is, of course, also popular. Experts advise that having oil burners serviced and tuned annually can save up to 10% on heating bills so this tip is well worth exploring.
It is also advisable to keep an eye on your thermostat with statistics telling us that we can save 3% on our heating bills for every degree we turn back our thermostats.
Many people also consider installing solar water components. This small easily installed system is virtually maintenance free, using the free heat from the sun to warm water.
Other simple tips include swaddling water cylinders and pipes and buying a low-flow shower head which can use up to 25% less hot water.
Just a few ways of saving money and keeping the heat in this winter.