Cold homes have a significant impact on people's health and so cold weather can lead to very serious health problems, especially if you have a long-term health condition or are over 65. Every winter in the UK, 25,000-30,000 deaths are linked to the cold weather. With fuel prices increasing many households may find it increasingly difficult to heat their homes and this may become more of a problem.
This page provides information and links to help you understand what you can do to keep your home warm, reduce your energy costs and stay healthy during winter.
Keep the heat in
Often the largest part of an energy bill is heating related. Make sure your home has the right amount of insulation. Use draught excluders on doors and draught-proof tape on windows or doors that don't close properly. For more information on what to do to keep the heat in please visit our energy efficiency page.
Set timers and thermostats correctly
Ensure you are using your timers and thermostats on your heating system properly. Set your Thermostatic Radiator Valves higher in your main living areas so that temperatures are maintained between 18-21ºC. The rest of your home can be kept at a lower temperature of 16-18ºC. In rooms that are not in use often (i.e. spare room, dining room), you can turn the radiator valves down to zero.
If you are unsure of how to use any of your existing heating controls, instructions can normally be downloaded from the manufacturer's website. Alternatively, contact Energy Saving Trust on 0800 512 012 who may be able to help you.
Ensure you are getting the best tariff.
You may be able to find a cheaper energy tariff. Contact your energy supplier to find out if there is a better deal available. Alternatively, the following websites search the tariffs offered by different suppliers to help you find the best deal - Which Switch, Energy Helpline, Money Supermarket. If you need help and advice on tariffs or help dealing with a complaint with your energy supplier, Consumer Direct can help on 08454 040506
Ensure your bills are accurate
Your bills may not be accurate if the meter company hasn't been able to access your meter. Submit your own readings, either by phone or online, to ensure that you are receiving an accurate bill. Keep a record of your readings and if you are not sure how to read your meter, send a photo.
Access all the benefits you are entitled to
A number of organisations can help you check that you are receiving all the benefits you are entitled to.
Benefit Entitlement Checks - 0800 882200
St Albans Citizens Advice Bureau - 01727 855269
Access any grants that may be available to you
There is a wide range of grants and discounts available to help you improve the energy efficiency of your home. Some of these are funded by the Government and others by the energy companies. For more information visit http://www.stalbans.gov.uk/environment-and-planning/sustainability/energy-efficiency-grants-advice/.
Consider a water meter
If your water use is low it may be more economical for your household to be on a water meter. Your local water board Veolia Water, provide an online calculator to help you work out whether changing to a meter will reduce the cost of your bills. (Please note that if you are a tenant of St Albans City and District Council your water provider will require consent from the Council. Please contact Housing Management on 01727 866100 for further advice)
Tips for keeping warm
To keep warm at home during the day try to:
- heat your main living room to around 18-21°C (64-70°F) and the rest of the house to at least 16°C (61°F)
- heat all the rooms you use in the day
- make sure you keep your living room warm throughout the day and heat your bedroom before going to bed
- set the timer on your heating to come on before you get up and switch off when you go to bed
- In very cold weather, set the heating to come on earlier, rather than turn the thermostat up. This means you won’t be cold while you wait for your home to heat up.
To keep safe and warm at home during the night you should:
- try to keep the temperature above 18°C (65°F) in your bedroom overnight
- open the window or door a little at night for ventilation if you use a fire or heater in your bedroom during winter
- never use hot water bottles in the same bed as an electric blanket, even if the blanket is switched off
- unplug blankets before you go to bed, unless they have a thermostat control for safe all-night use
- get your electric blanket tested every three years for safety – Age UK or your local fire and rescue service may be able to do this for you