As the UK’s harsh winter persists with sub-zero temperatures, countless households face mounting concerns over heating expenses. Recent research indicates that 90% of individuals worry about covering their energy costs during the colder months. Findings reveal that two out of three homes resort to drastic measures, such as limiting heating to a single room, to manage budgets.
Oliver Novakovic, innovation lead at Barratt Redrow, who works alongside scientists at Energy House 2.0—the UK’s premier energy research facility at the University of Salford—shares practical strategies for lowering bills. These range from immediate, no-cost changes to longer-term upgrades. Over the past 18 months, experts at Energy House 2.0 have rigorously tested heating solutions to identify those delivering maximum comfort at the lowest cost, while exploring techniques for building homes that balance airtightness with proper ventilation.
Lower Your Boiler’s Flow Temperature
The flow temperature on a boiler determines the heat level of water leaving the unit and circulating through radiators. Most systems default to 70-80°C. Researchers at Energy House 2.0 evaluated the impact of dialing this down and found it to be the simplest, cost-free way to reduce energy use significantly.
Lowering the temperature from 80°C to 60°C cuts gas usage for heating by 12%, according to the tests. Combi-boilers, in particular, perform well at this reduced setting, keeping homes warm efficiently. While radiators may not feel as scorching and rooms could warm slightly slower, well-insulated properties show minimal difference in comfort, yet deliver notable savings.
To adjust a combi boiler, look for the dial or buttons marked with a radiator icon, which controls the flow temperature. Turn it down or select a lower option, but refer to your model’s manual for specifics.
Maintain Your Boiler Regularly
A boiler is essential for hot water and central heating, operating daily and requiring annual servicing for safety and warranty compliance. Scheduling this in summer allows engineers to address issues before peak demand. If problems arise, like uneven radiator heating, a service proves valuable.
Standard combi-boiler servicing costs around £90 and includes inspecting components, filters, flue pipes, and checking for corrosion or leaks. Engineers run efficiency tests; even a 5% drop can add £87 to annual bills. They can also adjust the flow temperature if needed.
Enhance Home Insulation
Effective insulation traps heat inside, curbing losses through walls and roofs that drive up costs in older homes. Pre-1920s buildings often feature solid walls lacking insulation, while modern constructions comply with regulations and can be 65% more efficient.
“Many older, under-insulated homes create anxiety as winter nears,” Novakovic notes. Data from the Office for National Statistics shows 60% of English homes have average or better wall insulation, rising to 69% in Scotland and 52% in Wales.
Mineral wool suits loft insulation best, costing about £1,000 for a detached house. Though upfront, it yields £340 yearly savings for detached homes and £200 for semi-detached, per independent estimates.
Seal Draughts Without Blocking Ventilation
Draught-proofing targets uncontrolled air leaks while preserving necessary airflow to prevent condensation, damp, and mould—especially in kitchens and bathrooms.
Novakovic recommends: “Identify draughty spots early using a smoke pencil detector, available for under £50, to pinpoint leaks before cold snaps.” Older hardwood doors expand and contract with temperature, widening gaps; add draught excluders at the base and seals around frames.
Focus on letterboxes, unused chimneys, doors, window frames, and loft hatches. Weather stripping in foam, rubber, or metal fits easily on frames. For UPVC windows, inspect existing excluders for damage.
Use Curtains to Retain Heat
Closing curtains or blinds significantly reduces window heat loss, especially in single-glazed older homes. Tests in a simulated full house showed 10-30% less escape, varying by heating type and fit, as they form an insulating air barrier.
Standard household options suffice—no need for thermal variants. Radiators under windows lose more heat upward; here, coverings maximize retention and comfort. They also block draughts and condensation. As a low-cost, easy, reversible step, this method excels where major retrofits aren’t possible.
Consider Advanced Heating Upgrades
For substantial investments, Energy House 2.0’s comprehensive review of electric systems—amid the shift from gas—tested infrared panels, heat pumps, underfloor, skirting, and traditional radiators. Air source heat pumps emerged as efficient, costing just £1.84 daily in winter for average homes, surpassing gas boilers by providing consistent warmth.
Prevent Pipe Freezing
Freezing pipes expand water, risking bursts and costly repairs. Insulate loft pipes and tanks to safeguard against this.
“Pipe insulation is affordable and DIY-friendly,” Novakovic advises. Foam tubes slide on easily; wraps handle bends. Measure pipes first and opt for non-flammable materials.
This research, based on surveys of 2,000 UK residents, highlights common energy-saving habits and attitudes.
