Keeping Your Home Warm This Winter

Yes, we know, it’s only July but what better time to prepare for the cooler months.
Here at Sustainability Central we’ve been on the look-out for information and inspiration to help you plan ahead.

The way we see it it’s all quite simple - we need the heat inside our homes and there are a number of things we can do to keep our carbon consumption and our costs low

1.   Keep the humans warm

2.   Keep warmth in the home

3.   Get our home warm through the most sustainable and efficient system possible

And one of the best places to start for more information is the wonderful Centre for Sustainable Energy (CSE) who can be found here https://www.cse.org.uk/

Do get in touch with them especially if you are not sure where to start with energy efficiency.  You may be surprised at the amount of help including access to grant help that they can offer.

Now on with the checklist:

1. Big things

If you own your home, you may want to consider a more efficient boiler.  In which case check the new national boiler replacement scheme (more info here) and also check with CSE of course.

Insulation

One of the most impactful steps you can take to keep your home warm is to ensure it is well insulated, especially in the attic and walls. Proper insulation prevents heat from escaping, creating an efficient thermal barrier. By investing in insulation upgrades, you can retain warmth more effectively and decrease heat loss throughout the winter months.

Through the Great British Insulation Scheme, you could get financial support for insulation.

You’ll find more information here

If you’re up for a bit of DIY you can read the Which guide to loft insulation here

2. Medium things - Door and window insulation

For door and windows why not try Weather Stripping? You can get lots of advice from a simple internet search - or pop down to your local DIY store and ask them.

If you’ve tackled those already - or it’s all too big a project right now why not try these crafty ideas.

Prevent Drafts with Draft Stoppers
Gaps under doors are notorious for letting in cold air which you can combat by using a draft excluder.

They’re simple to make and come in many designs - just click on the images below for free instructions.

Insulated Curtains and Thermal Blinds
Windows are another major source of heat loss. Combat this problem by using insulated curtains or thermal blinds. These specially designed window coverings act as a barrier, preventing heat from escaping and cold temperatures from entering.

3. Smaller things - Clothes,  blankets and hot water bottle

As well as thinking about how to make the space around you warm and cosy also think about you and how to preserve your own body heat.
Don't underestimate the power of cosy textiles; adding thicker rugs and blankets can help you to feel more comfortable without solely relying on heating systems.
Think layers, jumpers, chunky socks, fingerless gloves…

Again, just click on the images below for instructions.

Have fun!

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