Households across the United Kingdom are being encouraged to adopt two straightforward, cost-effective measures to significantly reduce their energy expenditure this winter. With the Ofgem price cap recently increasing by 0.2%, pushing the typical annual dual-fuel bill for standard variable tariff customers to £1,758, every saving counts. Experts highlight that a simple tool and a minor behavioural adjustment could collectively save over £100 annually for many homes.
The Affordable Radiator Key Solution
Teresa Paul, Category Development Director for Sustainability at Wickes, strongly recommends that homeowners utilise a radiator key to bleed their heating systems. Trapped air within radiators creates cold spots and impedes the proper flow of hot water, forcing the system to work harder and longer to heat a room. An un-bled radiator fails to operate efficiently, leading to unnecessary energy consumption and higher costs.
While Wickes stocks a radiator key for £1.25, more budget-friendly options are readily available, including a 99p Radiator Valve Key at Screwfix. This minimal investment can yield immediate improvements in heating efficiency, ensuring radiators distribute heat effectively and reducing the boiler's runtime.
Adopting the 'One Degree Celsius Principle'
Ms. Paul also advocates for a subtle yet impactful change in household heating habits, known as the 'one degree Celsius principle'. She explains that most residences are maintained at temperatures higher than necessary for comfort. Lowering your thermostat by just one degree is a modification that the majority of people will scarcely notice in terms of feeling colder.
This slight reduction means the boiler operates less intensively, translating into tangible savings over the colder months. Industry estimates suggest that decreasing the thermostat setting by a single degree can save the average household approximately £90 per year on energy bills.
Combating Heat Loss Through Draught Proofing
Further advice extends to addressing heat escape, a major contributor to energy waste. Doors and windows are frequently the primary culprits for warm air leaking from a home. Implementing simple solutions like draught excluders and rubber seals, which can start from around £6, creates an effective barrier against heat loss.
For those considering professional assistance, comprehensive draught proofing can save around £35 annually. Tackling both minor and significant draughts not only enhances home comfort but also delivers considerable financial benefits by preventing expensively heated air from escaping outdoors.
By combining these practical steps—using a radiator key, adjusting the thermostat, and sealing draughts—UK households can make a meaningful dent in their energy consumption and costs, providing welcome relief amidst ongoing financial pressures.
