Winter can be both chilly and costly, as your home relies on more heating to stay warm and comfortable. With rising energy prices, it’s more important than ever to keep our homes as warm and energy efficient as possible. Here are WEFIXANY’s top tips to help you stay cosy, save on bills, and make the most of your heating this winter.

Tip 1. Maximise Your Boiler’s Efficiency

Your boiler works hardest in the winter, so make sure it’s operating as efficiently as possible:

• Set the Right Temperature: Keeping your thermostat between 18–21°C is typically ideal. If your boiler has an eco-mode, consider using it to save on energy.
• Use Timers: Program your heating to turn on only when you need it, like in the mornings and evenings. Most modern thermostats allow for custom schedules, ensuring you stay warm while avoiding unnecessary heating costs.
• Boiler Pressure: Ensure your boilers pressure is around 1.5 bar, if it’s too low, your system won’t be working efficiently and will cost you more in the long run. 
• Annual Servicing: If your boiler hasn’t been serviced yet, schedule it with a Gas Safe engineer. An annual check-up ensures it’s running safely and efficiently, helping prevent costly breakdowns. Call us today on 01775 550 135

Tip 2. Insulate to Reduce Heat Loss

A well-insulated home holds onto heat longer, which means you won’t have to rely on the boiler as much. Here’s how to reduce drafts and heat loss:

• Seal Windows and Doors: Use draft excluders on doors, especially at the bottom, and apply weatherstripping around windows. You’ll be amazed at how much warmth these simple steps can preserve.
• Add Heavy Curtains: Thicker curtains help keep the warmth in, especially if you close them after dark. For an extra boost, consider lining them with thermal fabric.
• Consider Loft and Wall Insulation: For homes without loft or wall insulation, installing it can save hundreds on energy bills each year. Many councils and energy providers in the UK offer grants or discounted rates for home insulation, so it’s worth checking if you’re eligible.

Tip 3. Bleed Your Radiators

If you notice cold spots on your radiators, air may be trapped inside, stopping heat from circulating properly. Bleeding your radiators at the start of winter can help improve warmth and efficiency:

• How to Bleed a Radiator: Use a radiator key to open the valve slightly, releasing trapped air until water begins to drip. This ensures the radiator heats evenly, which means your boiler can work less hard to keep your home warm. Check out our videos on how for a step-by-step guide on how to bleed your radiators.
• Check Radiator Positioning: If possible, avoid placing large furniture directly in front of radiators, as it can block heat from spreading around the room.

Tip 4. Upgrade to a Smart Thermostat

Smart thermostats can help you keep your home comfortable while optimising energy use. Many models allow you to control the temperature remotely via an app, ensuring you only use heat when necessary. Some of the benefits include:

• Scheduling and Zoning: Set specific temperatures for different times of day, or even control heating in individual rooms if your system supports it.
• Monitoring Energy Use: Smart thermostats often provide data on energy usage, helping you identify savings and see where you can reduce energy waste.

Upgrading to a smart thermostat is often a simple change with significant benefits for comfort and cost savings.

Tip 5. Ensure Carbon Monoxide Safety

As you rely on your boiler more in winter, carbon monoxide (CO) safety is essential. CO is a dangerous gas that’s odourless and invisible, so a detector is crucial:

• Install a CO Detector: Place detectors near your boiler and any gas appliances and check the batteries regularly. CO detectors provide peace of mind and alert you if levels become unsafe.
• Know the Signs of CO Exposure: Symptoms include headaches, dizziness, and nausea. If you or anyone in your household experiences these symptoms, leave the house immediately, turn off the boiler if safe, and seek medical help.

Tip 6. Prepare for Winter Emergencies

Winter weather can be unpredictable, so it’s wise to have a plan in case of heating issues. Here’s a quick checklist:

• Have Emergency Contacts Ready: Save the number of a trusted heating engineer (like us at WEFIXANY Boiler & Heating Installations!) so you can call quickly if your boiler breaks down.
• Keep a Backup Heater: A portable heater can be a lifesaver during cold spells, particularly if you’re waiting on boiler repairs.
• Check for Frozen Pipes: Insulate exposed pipes to prevent freezing, and if temperatures drop dramatically, open cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate around indoor pipes.

Following these steps can help you keep your home warm and energy-efficient this winter, reducing your energy bills and giving you peace of mind during the colder months.

Remember, if you have any issues with your boiler or would like advice on winter heating, our friendly team at WEFIXANY Boiler & Heating Installations are here to help. Give us a call, on 01775 550 135 or fill out our contact us form here and we’ll be happy to offer expert advice or schedule a service to keep your home comfortable all season long.