Tips and thoughts for keeping your home warm
JANUARY has certainly made its presence felt as temperatures continue to plummet while wind and rain batter our homes. There is nothing quite 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 heating requirements for the months ahead 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.
Individual taste dictates the type of heating chosen by home owners. Statistics indicate that much-loved open fires are the least economical because a large percentage of the heat goes straight up the chimney. It is advisable to keep the fireplace damper closed - heat rises and an open damper is just like a hole in the roof!
Over the past few years, 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.
Many homes use 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.
Just a few ways of saving money and keeping the heat in this winter.