Freezing British winters heighten concerns for millions facing rising heating costs. Recent research shows that nine in 10 individuals worry about covering energy bills during the colder months. Two-thirds of households adopt drastic measures, such as heating only one room, to manage expenses.

Experts from Energy House 2.0, the UK’s leading energy research facility at the University of Salford, collaborated with industry professionals over 18 months. They tested various heating systems to identify cost-effective ways to stay warm while minimizing energy use. The findings highlight practical steps, from no-cost adjustments to worthwhile investments, to build airtight yet ventilated homes.

Lower Your Boiler’s Flow Temperature

The boiler’s flow temperature determines how hot the water leaves the unit to enter radiators. Most systems default to 70°C to 80°C. Researchers at Energy House 2.0 found that lowering this to 60°C cuts gas use for heating by 12%, with no initial outlay required.

Combi-boilers perform well at this reduced setting, providing efficient warmth. Radiators may feel less hot, and rooms could warm slightly slower, but proper insulation ensures minimal impact. Homeowners can save significantly on bills. On combi-boilers, adjust the dial or buttons marked with a radiator symbol. Always check the manual for specific instructions.

Maintain Your Boiler Regularly

Boilers deliver essential hot water and central heating, demanding daily operation. Annual servicing ensures safety and preserves warranty. Schedule it in summer for easier access and pre-winter fixes. If issues arise, like uneven radiator heating, a service proves valuable.

A standard combi-boiler service costs around £90. It includes inspecting internal components, filters, flue pipes, and checking for corrosion or leaks. Engineers test efficiency; even a 5% drop can add £87 to annual energy costs. They can also adjust flow temperatures if needed.

Improve Home Insulation

Insulation traps heat inside, reducing escape through walls and roofs. Pre-1920s homes often lack it, driving up bills. Newer builds comply with regulations, offering up to 65% better efficiency than older ones.

Oliver Novakovic, innovation lead at Barratt Redrow, notes, “The large number of poorly insulated, older homes across the country can cause stress for those living in them as we approach winter.” Data from the Office for National Statistics indicates 60% of English homes have average or better wall insulation, rising to 69% in Scotland and 52% in Wales.

Mineral wool suits lofts, costing about £1,000 for detached homes. Savings reach £340 yearly for detached properties and £200 for semi-detached, according to estimates from consumer experts.

Seal Draughts Effectively

Draught-proofing controls airflow, not blocks it entirely. Novakovic explains that some ventilation prevents condensation and mould, especially in kitchens and bathrooms.

“Try to locate draughty areas around your home so that you can fix them before the freezing temperatures set in,” Novakovic advises. “The gadget that will make a world of difference, when you’re trying to work out why your house is cold, is a smoke pencil draught detector. You can pick one of these up for less than £50 to easily find the places where air is leaking.”

Older hardwood doors worsen in winter due to expansion and contraction. Use draught exclusion strips at the bottom and gap sealers around frames. Target letterboxes, unused chimneys, doors, windows, and loft hatches. Weather stripping in foam, rubber, or metal fits window frames easily. For UPVC windows, inspect existing excluders for damage.

Close Curtains and Blinds

Drawing curtains or blinds reduces window heat loss by 10-30%, based on full-scale tests. This effect stems from creating an air pocket that acts as insulation, using everyday coverings—no special thermal ones needed.

Radiator placement under windows increases loss as heat rises directly out. Curtains prove most beneficial here, cutting escape and boosting comfort. They also curb draughts and condensation. As an affordable, easy, reversible option, they suit homes unable to upgrade insulation or windows.

Consider Heating Upgrades

For bigger budgets, Energy House 2.0’s comprehensive tests on electric systems—vital as the UK phases out gas boilers—evaluated infrared panels, heat pumps, underfloor, skirting, and traditional radiators. Air source heat pumps cost as little as £1.84 daily in winter, outperforming gas boilers by delivering steady warmth without peaks.

Prevent Frozen Pipes

Winter pipe freezes expand water, risking bursts and costly repairs. Insulate loft pipes and tanks to avoid this. Novakovic says, “Insulating your pipes doesn’t have to be expensive and can be done as a DIY job. You can buy foam pipe insulation, which is inexpensive, though better-quality insulators will set you back more.”

Foam tubes slip onto pipes; wraps handle bends. Measure accurately before buying, and steer clear of flammable materials.

A survey of 2,000 participants explored attitudes and habits toward energy efficiency, underscoring widespread interest in these strategies.