Help save hundreds heating your home with expert's 5 simple tips

As temperatures begin to dip and that cold breeze starts to blow through our homes, households across the UK might be tempted to reach for the thermostat.While many may swear to never reach for the heating until November, as soon as September comes around, it can start to get surprisingly chilly. But with energy prices still at sky-high levels, heating the home remains one of the biggest costs facing families each winter.

According to Ofgem, the average annual dual-fuel energy bill is still well above pre-pandemic levels, meaning every minute with those radiators on can make a big difference to your final bill. The Energy Saving Trust estimates that heating makes up more than half of the average household's energy use, so even small errors can soon add up. Luckily for those looking to save a bit of cash, there are a few simple steps you can take now that, over the winter months, can potentially save you hundreds of pounds.

So what are the most common pitfalls when it comes to heating the home - and how can you avoid them this winter? Heating specialist Ryan Willdig from Heatforce has revealed the answers.

Overusing the thermostat

"When it's cold, many of us will boost the thermostat, thinking that it will heat our home faster," Ryan added. "However, this isn't the case, and while it won't heat your home any faster, what it will do is waste energy and therefore waste money. Each degree above 19-20 degrees Celsius can add a whopping 10% to your annual heating costs."

Leaving the heating on all day

There has been advice in recent years that leaving your heating on low all day is actually more efficient than spiking it up and down while you're at home or at work. But in reality, this could be adding lots to your bill - it's far more efficient and cost-effective to only use the heating when you're going to feel the warmth.

Blocking radiators

Placing sofas, curtains, or even radiator covers in front of your radiators can trap heat and make them less efficient. In short, it means they'll take longer to heat your room, costing you pennies and pounds every time you switch the thermostat on.

Ignoring boiler servicing

Getting your boiler checked regularly can also be key to keeping its efficiency. Ryan added: "Nobody likes maintenance, and those annual boiler services do creep up fast, but they wouldn't be in place if they weren't essential.

"Skipping your annual boiler service means minor issues could go unnoticed, which could reduce its efficiency. If you're due one, then it's best to get this booked in September to avoid any serious malfunctions in peak winter."

Neglecting insulation

Insulation is one of the best ways of keeping heat inside your home, and therefore allowing your radiators to work a whole lot less. While nobody's suggesting a full expensive round of cavity wall insulation, simple things like radiator reflectors or draught excluders can all improve efficiency.