Check Your Windows and Doors
You have paid good money to heat your apartment, so let’s make sure that precious warmth stays put and doesn’t just sneak straight out! The first and most effective step is tackling draughts, the main culprits for quick heat loss, which is especially common in older London buildings.
Your windows and doors are often the biggest causes of heat loss. If you notice some draughts, you can invest in simple, affordable solutions like draught excluders for the bottom of doors. Grab some inexpensive sealing tape for windows to fill gaps around the frames. Heavy curtains or removable window film are brilliant, non-permanent ways to add insulation if you rent.
Make the Most of Natural Light and Radiator Heat
The winter sun is still effective at warming your home. Always open your curtains wide during the day to let natural sunlight stream in, warming up your apartment space for free. Then, close them as soon as the sun sets to trap that warmth inside! Simple, but effective.
Remember this simple trick: always draw your curtains and blinds as soon as it gets dark to create an extra thermal layer, but do remember to open them wide when the sun is out to soak up some free solar heat!
As winter approaches, it is time to make your radiators work smarter, not harder. Most of the heat they produce is absorbed by the wall behind them, especially in older buildings. The simple, cost-effective fix? Radiator reflector panels!
These panels, which can be as simple as aluminium-coated foil or even kitchen foil-coated corrugated cardboard, sit behind your radiator to reflect warmth back into the room. Radiator reflector kits are readily available online, inexpensive to buy, and easy to fit. This tiny trick can make a noticeable difference to your room temperature and shave pounds off your heating bill.
Layer Up Your Living Space
If your apartment has cold wooden or tiled floors without underfloor heating, a few strategically placed rugs will make a huge difference. They will prevent heat from escaping and keep your feet snug.
For ultimate comfort, embrace thick throws, blankets, and other stylish, winter-themed soft furnishings. When relaxing on the sofa, wrapping yourself in a duvet or a cosy fleece throw warms you up faster than cranking up the thermostat.
Also, consider using a hot water bottle or an electric blanket at night—they are incredibly effective ways to stay toasty in bed without paying to heat an empty room for hours. They are simple, comfortable, and so much cheaper!
As winter approaches, the most energy-efficient solution is to focus on warming yourself directly, rather than the entire apartment. This is where clever clothing and soft furnishing layering come into your living space!
Use Your Heating Wisely
While keeping the cold out is key, you also need a smart strategy when you turn the heating on. A great starting point is your thermostat. Setting it lower—around 18–21°C is often comfortable, and dropping it by just one degree can save you a surprising amount on your bill!
Try to maintain a more consistent, low temperature rather than letting your apartment get freezing cold before blasting the heat. This is where timer settings or a smart thermostat come in handy. They allow you to warm the apartment just before you wake up, get home from work, or after having a night out.
Finally, don’t waste money heating rooms you are not using. Shut the doors to spare bedrooms and storage areas, and turn the radiator down or off in those unused spaces. This lets you focus all that warmth on the rooms where you actually spend your time.
Appliance & Utility Tips
To truly maximise your warmth, ensure your existing heating system runs as efficiently as possible. A crucial, yet often forgotten, task is bleeding your radiators. If the top of a radiator feels cold while the bottom is hot, it means trapped air is blocking the circulation. Releasing this air ensures the radiator heats up thoroughly, making your system more effective.
Next, check to see if any furniture is blocking a radiator. Moving your sofa or bulky chair even a few inches away allows the heat to circulate properly, warming the room instead of just the back of your furniture.
A portable heater can be used sparingly if you need a quick heat boost for a smaller area. Just ensure you use it safely and turn it off when leaving the room. Every little adjustment helps you get the most out of every penny you spend on heating!
Warm Up Your Routine
Sometimes, the best warmth comes from your own lifestyle habits! Start by embracing cosy layers. An extra jumper, thick socks, or even long johns can make a huge difference. The British Heart Foundation advises that layering with wool, cotton, or fleece is far more effective than wearing just one thick item.
Next, get moving! A brief stroll or a quick jog on the spot can increase your circulation, generating natural body heat faster than any radiator.
Finally, use your kitchen to your advantage. Cooking at home warms the space and provides warming food and drinks. Invest in a flask and fill it with hot water after boiling the kettle; sipping hot drinks throughout the day keeps your blood circulating and your hands toasty. These simple shifts in your routine keep you snug, even when the temperature dips outside!
When to Contact Your Managing Agent
If you have tried all the draught-proofing and smart layering tips but your apartment still feels constantly cold, it is time to seek professional help. Tenants should contact their managing agent or landlord immediately if the heating system is not working correctly or if there is a noticeable, persistent, major draught that they cannot tackle themselves.
It is tempting to attempt a DIY fix, but an expert should always handle major repairs or system issues to ensure safety and proper maintenance. Reputable agents, like Crown Luxury Homes, ensure all rental properties are properly maintained for your comfort and safety throughout the winter. Don’t suffer in silence! A professional can often solve a big cold issue far quicker than you think!
A Warmer Winter Awaits!
Staying warm this winter does not mean spending more on energy bills; it means making small, consistent changes to manage your home’s heat. Every trick in this guide, from draught-proofing windows to simply wearing an extra jumper, contributes to a more comfortable, energy-efficient apartment.
A warm home is crucial for your well-being and finances. By implementing these practical and affordable tips, you can stop dreading your energy bill and start embracing the cosy season.
If you are seeking a London apartment that feels like a warm and welcoming home, optimised for comfort and ready for every season, contact Crown Luxury Homes today!
