Tips to help keep your house warm this winter

Winter is now approaching and soon temperatures will drop. Over the next few months, it will become increasingly important for you to keep your house warm and also keep your bills down. This is often easier said than done as utility bills often increase and rarely go down. It it therefore important to make sure that your house is as energy efficient as possible. Here are some tips to help you do so, without breaking the bank.

Check your loft
Of all the heat lost in your house, an average of 26% goes through your roof. If you have access then take a look and see how your insulation is looking. Many local authorities and even some utility companies will have schemes to give you grants to pay towards insulation so it's worth checking out. If you want a professional to do the work for you, have a look at the National Insulation Association to help you.

Look at your Windows
On average, 20% of the heat lost in your house goes through your windows. Having double glazing can reduce the heat lost through your windows by half. Inspect them regularly to make sure that they are in good condition. Check the seal around the edge and make sure there is no condensation inside. Older windows are more likely to let out the heat. If there are any problems then call a glazing expert to have a look. It might save you money in the long term. It can also be beneficial to have thick lined curtains and make sure they cover the windows at night. This will prevent some of the heat getting past.

Check for a draught
Look for anywhere where a draught might get into the house. This could include doorways, cat flaps and letter boxes. In most cases, draught excluders are pretty cheap and could make those winters feel a lot warmer. Some door frames will have rubber seals built in, make sure that these are in good condition and there are no gaps when the door is closed.