Turn Up the Ideas, Not the Heating
by Colne Life magazine
Why pay more to stay warm?
With these clever autumn home hacks, you can keep the chill out, the comfort in, and your energy bills down — all while making your space irresistibly snug.
1. Layer Up Your Living Spaces
Think of your rooms like you would your wardrobe: layers make all the difference. Drape chunky knitted throws over sofas and armchairs, pile on extra cushions in rich textures like velvet or corduroy, and keep a basket of blankets within arm’s reach. The more layers you use, the less you’ll feel the need for costly heating top-ups.
2. Get Clever with Curtains
Your windows are prime heat-leakers. Swap out light summer drapes for heavier, lined curtains that keep the warmth in and the draughts out. Close them as soon as dusk falls to trap the day’s heat. You’ll reduce overnight heat loss, meaning your home stays warmer for longer without the boiler working overtime.
3. Rearrange for Warmth
A simple shuffle of furniture can make a big difference. Move seating away from draughty spots like windows and doors, and closer to internal walls. If you’ve got a radiator, make sure it’s not blocked by sofas or large furniture so heat can circulate freely — no point paying to warm the back of your sofa instead of yourself!
4. Roll Out the Rugs
Bare floors might be stylish, but they’re not doing your toes (or your bills) any favours in October. Adding a rug — or even layering a couple — traps heat and stops the chill from seeping up through the floor, reducing the temptation to turn on the heating.
5. Light for Warmth, Not Just Brightness
Overhead lighting can feel harsh in the colder months. Use table lamps, floor lamps, and candles (real or LED) to create a warm glow. Choose energy-efficient LED bulbs with a warm temperature (around 2700K) — they cost a fraction to run compared to halogens, and the cosy ambience means you’ll feel warmer too.
QUICK MONEY-SAVING WINS FOR AUTUMN
- Block draughts with inexpensive draft excluders or even rolled-up blankets along door bottoms.
- Cook and heat at the same time — leave the oven door open for a few minutes after baking to let the warmth spread.
- Switch to smart plugs to turn off lamps, heaters, or appliances remotely when not in use.
- Use hot water bottles instead of heating the whole house — perfect for bedtime warmth.
- Layer up — fluffy socks and a cosy jumper are still the cheapest heating method on the market.
Check out more money-saving tips here.
ColneLife Sep/Oct/Nov 25
