STOP YOUR HEAT ESCAPING

Cosy up indoors this winter

When the temperature drops outside, don’t succumb to frosty fingers inside, along with heating bills that are literally through the roof. these simple DIY jobs will help your home stay toasty warm, while saving money.

1 Line your curtains Prevent heat loss through windows by hanging thick curtains. Choose ones with a thermal lining or line them yourself with fleece. Don’t forget to let in natural warmth from sunlight during the day.

2 insulate your Loft Insulating your loft is a vital job as a quarter of heat is lost through the roof in an uninsulated home. If there’s no damp or condensation problems, fit rolls of insulation between joists, then add a second layer across the joists.

3 Wrap exposed pipes Cover exposed hot water pipes by wrapping them with pipe lagging. The insulating foam tubes protect against the cold and make heating more efficient. Note the pipe diameter before buying.

4 Look for draughts Even small draughts can make a difference. Install a brush or flap to your letter box and cover keyholes, too. Add brush draught excluders beneath external doors and patch up gaps around windows and doors with easy-to-fit insulating tape.

5 free your radiators If there are large pieces of furniture in front of the main radiator, they may be absorbing the heat. Try placing a shelf above the radiator to channel heat into the room. A foil panel behind the radiator will also reflect heat and stop it escaping.

6 set a timer It’s a myth that keeping your heating on all day is more efficient. Set timers so heating warms up gradually rather than turning up the thermostat as soon as you get home. Remember to shut doors of unused rooms to keep heat contained.