8 Ways to Keep Warm This Winter

The days are getting shorter and the nights are getting longer. Now is the time to start thinking about insulating your home before the cold starts creeping in. We've put together some top tips to keep you and your home warm and cosy this winter.

Open Fires

If you are lucky enough to have an open fireplace, embrace it! You can't beat the sound of crackling logs and the instant warmth they provide. Make sure to stock up on fuel that is right for you. Kiln dried logs are perfect to use in wood burners and multi fuel stoves as they are efficient and provide a high heat output. Heat logs are ideal for open fires and can be used straightaway. Coal burns hotter so more suitable if it's a particularly chilly spell. Don't forget kindling as they make lighting a fire much easier and can be placed on top of firelighters.

Free Standing Heaters

The type of heater suitable for you depends on the size of the room and storage space available. Oil filled radiators are more efficient than electric heaters and provide long lasting heat. Although they may take longer to heat they are very quiet and don't need to continuously run to provide consistent heat. Where as electric heaters are lightweight and portable. They provide instant heat in bursts which is perfect for a small room.

De Vielle Premium 3D Tall Electric Stove Black 2000W

Radiators

Radiators can end up with pockets of air trapped inside them over time. This prevents hot water from circulating within them correctly when you switch your heating on, resulting in your radiators only partially heating up, or not at all. Therefore, bleeding your radiators can make a huge difference to the warmth of your room. Unsure how to do it? Read our simple blog on how to bleed your radiator.

Reflect the heat by using radiator foil. Radiator panels are relatively cheap, easy to install, and ensure that heat from your radiators warms up your room and not your walls. They work by reflecting the heat back into the room allowing the heat to circulate the room making it more cosy and warm.

Layer with Rugs

A quick fix solution is to add rugs to your rooms. The latest trend is layering rugs so you don’t have to look for a large one to fill the space. Not only does it add character to a room but it will make it feel more cosy too! Wool is a natural insulator so look out for some trendy rugs that are made from wool.

Floating Shelf

Add a floating shelf above your radiator. Heat rises so adding a shelf above your radiator helps to deflect the heat around the room and stop it rising to the ceiling. Not only is this functional in terms of heating, it’s perfect for extra storage or adding more personality to the room.

Insulate your Attic

Attic insulation may not be the most glamorous of home improvements, but it’s absolutely crucial in maintaining temperature levels and keeping heating costs down in your home. If your attic isn’t insulated yet, you might be losing up to a quarter of the heat through the roof. It’s definitely worth the investment to keep warm during the winter months! Want to find out more about insulating an attic? Read our blog on how to insulate an attic.

Electric Blanket

If it’s night-time you’re looking for more warmth, opt for an electric blanket. An under electric blanket sits on top of your mattress and makes sure you’re getting into a nice toasty bed. Alternatively, an over electric blanket will have you warm in whichever room you decide to relax in that evening. They’re perfect to keep you warm without the cost.

Service your Boiler

Ensure your boiler is serviced so it continues to work efficiently. Defective boilers can increase your heating bill and make it more difficult to bring your home to your desired heat. It’s recommended to get your boiler serviced every 12 months and particularly before the winter season. This will ensure that it runs efficiently and safely.