How to Stay Warm Without Breaking the Bank
With forecasts suggesting one of the coldest winters in decades — and energy prices still high — staying warm while keeping your heating bills under control is more important than ever.
Even with a high-efficiency central heating system and beautiful cast iron radiators, heating your home can become costly during prolonged cold spells. Fortunately, there are smart, simple steps you can take to make your heating more efficient and keep costs down this winter.
1. Set the Right Temperature
It’s tempting to crank the heating up to full, but higher settings don’t always mean greater comfort — just greater cost.
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The ideal daytime room temperature is around 20.5°C.
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For sleeping, 18°C is usually enough to stay warm and sleep soundly.
If your system has a programmable thermostat, set it to switch off after bedtime and back on an hour before you wake up. Don’t have one? Plug-in timers are affordable, easy to install, and usually pay for themselves in a single season.
2. Maintain Your Heating System
A well-maintained system is a more efficient and cost-effective one.
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Annual servicing by a qualified heating engineer can save 10–20% on your heating bills.
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Check your cast iron radiators for cold spots and bleed them regularly to remove trapped air, which improves performance.
Regular checks and upkeep mean less energy wasted and more reliable warmth when you need it most.
3. Stop Heat Escaping
Producing heat is one thing. Keeping it in is another. A few changes around the home can make a big difference:
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Windows are a major source of heat loss. Keep curtains closed when the heating is on to trap warmth inside.
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Use thermal-lined curtains for even better insulation.
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If your radiators are located beneath windows, ensure curtains sit on top of them rather than covering the heat source.
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Avoid placing furniture directly in front of radiators. Let the heat flow freely into the room.
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Fit draft excluders under doors — especially exterior doors — to prevent cold air seeping in and warm air escaping.
These small fixes add up to noticeable savings on your winter heating bills.
4. Use Your Radiators Effectively
Cast iron radiators are not only beautiful but incredibly efficient at retaining and releasing heat over time.
To get the most from them:
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Avoid covering them with furniture, towels, or curtains.
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Ensure thermostatic radiator valves aren’t obstructed — this helps maintain accurate temperature readings and improves control.
Final Thoughts
By combining smart thermostat settings, regular maintenance, and small improvements to insulation, you can stay warm this winter without overspending.
Pair these tips with your cast iron radiators, and you’ll enjoy both style and substance — efficient, lasting warmth even through the harshest British weather.
Need more advice?
Our team is always happy to help.
📞 Call us on 01723 321 333
📧 Email: info@periodstyle.co.uk
