We’ve just passed the shortest day of the year and for the next three months the nightly minimum temperature is going to be less than 10C.
This dip in temperature will be matched by a spike in household energy use.
Here are some useful facts to consider on a cold winter’s night.
The bigger the difference between the outside temperature and the thermostat on your heater inside, the harder your heater will work.
It will also use more energy, even if you don’t turn the dial up higher, which most people mistakenly do anyway.
How much more energy is used depends on how well your house is insulated, how thick the glass in your windows is and whether you have air leaks and draughts around your doors, windows and appliance vents.
If you think you are using more power or using more heating energy than last winter, compare average monthly temperatures on a weather website. Then compare your utilities bill from the previous winter to see if your ageing water heater (hot water system) is using more power, rather than your room heater.
Apart from ensuring that your house is well insulated and draught-proof, you can turn down your thermostat. Around 19C is all that is needed to be comfortable. Remember that every degree higher can result in a 10 per cent increase on your power bill.
Setting the thermostat 1C lower could save you up to 20 per cent in power usage.
Sometimes the best investment is an upgrade or entirely new heating system. You can be surprised how quickly you can recoup the cost on your energy bills.
Contact ERS-Bradford to discuss any questions you have in relation to energy use, and energy (+ money) saving options – and ask about our Free 1 hour Energy Assessment !