Keeping your home warm in Devon without burning through your savings can feel like a challenge, especially when energy prices fluctuate. But the good news? Small changes can make a big difference. By tweaking a few habits and upgrading key parts of your heating system, you can boost efficiency, cut costs, and even reduce your carbon footprint.
Simple Ways to Improve Heating Efficiency
Many people assume that making a home more energy-efficient requires expensive renovations, but there are plenty of budget-friendly ways to get started:
- Bleed your radiators – If your radiators have cold spots, trapped air is likely preventing hot water from circulating properly. Releasing that air ensures they heat up efficiently.
- Close doors and curtains – Keeping internal doors shut stops warm air from escaping, and thick curtains help trap heat in during cold evenings.
- Move furniture away from radiators – Sofas or large objects positioned in front of radiators absorb heat, preventing it from circulating. A simple rearrangement can improve airflow.
- Use draught excluders – Gaps under doors and around windows let cold air in. Draught excluders or simple DIY fixes like weatherstripping can prevent heat loss.
- Lower your thermostat by one degree – This minor adjustment can noticeably cut energy consumption without making your home uncomfortably cold.
Why Insulation is Key to Staying Warm
Even the most advanced heating system can’t perform well if the heat escapes as quickly as it’s produced. Insulation plays a crucial role in keeping your home warm without overworking your boiler.
Areas to Focus On
- Loft insulation – Heat rises, meaning an uninsulated loft allows precious warmth to escape through the roof. Proper loft insulation can save hundreds on heating bills each year.
- Wall insulation – Older homes in Devon often have solid walls that lose heat faster than modern cavity walls. External or internal insulation options can significantly improve efficiency.
- Floor insulation – Many homes, particularly those with wooden floors, have gaps that let in cold draughts. Rugs and underfloor insulation help retain warmth.
- Windows and doors – Double glazing is the best option for heat retention, but if that’s not feasible, heavy curtains and secondary glazing film can still make a difference.
How Smart Thermostats Help You Save
Traditional heating controls can be inefficient, making your system work harder than necessary. A smart thermostat optimises energy use by learning your habits and adjusting the temperature accordingly.
Benefits of a Smart Thermostat
- Remote control – Adjust your heating from your phone anywhere, so you never heat an empty house.
- Zoned heating – Some models allow you to set different temperatures in different rooms, so you’re not wasting energy in unused spaces.
- Scheduling and automation – Many smart thermostats learn when you’re home and adjust the heating automatically for maximum efficiency.
- Energy tracking – Get real-time insights into your energy usage so you can spot inefficiencies and make smarter choices.
Investing in a smart thermostat might feel like an upfront cost, but it often pays for itself within a couple of years through savings on energy bills.
The Importance of Regular Boiler Servicing
A neglected boiler won’t just cost more to run. It can become a safety hazard and break down when you need it most. Regular servicing ensures your boiler operates efficiently and identifies potential faults before they become serious problems.
Key Reasons to Book Annual Servicing
- Improved efficiency – A well-maintained boiler burns fuel effectively, reducing waste and keeping heating costs in check.
- Longer lifespan – Routine maintenance can prevent costly breakdowns and extend the life of your boiler.
- Safety assurance – Engineers check for carbon monoxide leaks and other hazards that can pose health risks.
- Compliance with warranties – Many boiler manufacturers require annual servicing to keep warranties valid.
Even if your boiler seems to be working fine, an annual service is a worthwhile investment to keep it running smoothly and safely.
Making the Most of Your Heating System
Improving heating efficiency doesn’t have to be complicated or costly. Simple changes like insulating your home better, upgrading to a smart thermostat, and keeping up with boiler servicing can lead to noticeable savings. With energy prices always on the move, these steps provide long-term benefits for both your wallet and the environment.
If you’re considering insulation upgrades, a new thermostat, or a boiler check-up, now is the perfect time to take action. A few smart decisions today can make all the difference as the colder months roll in.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I bleed my radiators?
It’s a good idea to check your radiators at least once a year, ideally before winter. If they have cold spots or make gurgling noises, bleeding them will help restore efficiency.
Is it worth upgrading to a smart thermostat?
Absolutely! A smart thermostat helps you control heating better, reducing waste and saving money. Over time, the energy savings can offset the initial investment.
What’s the best type of insulation for my home in Devon?
This depends on your home’s age and construction. For newer homes, upgrading loft and cavity wall insulation usually makes the biggest difference. Older homes may benefit from solid wall insulation. Consulting an expert can help determine the best solution.
How do I know if my boiler needs servicing?
If your boiler is making unusual noises, struggling to heat your home, or your energy bills are rising for no clear reason, it’s time for a service. Even if there’s no obvious issue, annual servicing keeps it running safely and efficiently.
Will lowering my thermostat by one degree actually save money?
Yes! While it might not seem like much, dropping the temperature by just one degree can cut heating costs by around 10%, according to the Energy Saving Trust. It’s a small change that adds up over time.
