Small Changes, Big Savings
You don't need to spend thousands on a full renovation to see a real difference in your energy bills. Here are 10 practical steps you can take right now — most costing under £100.
1. Bleed Your Radiators
If the top of your radiators feels cooler than the bottom, there's trapped air inside. Bleeding them takes five minutes with a radiator key and ensures your heating system runs at full efficiency. Cost: free.
2. Draught-Proof Doors and Windows
Draughts account for up to 15% of heat loss in a typical home. Self-adhesive foam strips for doors and windows cost just a few pounds from any DIY store. Don't forget the letterbox and keyhole!
3. Turn Your Thermostat Down by 1°C
Reducing your thermostat by just one degree can save around £80–£100 per year on your heating bill without a noticeable difference in comfort. The recommended setting is 18–21°C.
4. Use a Programmable or Smart Thermostat
A smart thermostat like Nest, Hive, or tado° learns your routine and heats your home only when needed. Most households save £100–£150 per year after installation. Many energy companies offer them at discounted rates.
5. Switch to LED Bulbs
LED bulbs use 80% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and last up to 25 times longer. Replacing all the bulbs in your home can save £40–£60 per year. They're now available in warm tones that look just like traditional bulbs.
6. Insulate Your Hot Water Cylinder
If you have a hot water tank, fitting a British Standard jacket (at least 75mm thick) can save around £35–£45 per year. They cost about £15 from any hardware store and take minutes to fit.
7. Use Thermal Curtains
Up to 20% of heat loss happens through windows. Thermal-lined curtains act as an extra insulation layer. Close them as soon as it gets dark and open them on sunny days to let free solar heat in.
8. Fit Radiator Reflector Panels
If your radiators are on external walls, much of the heat goes straight through the wall. Reflector panels fitted behind radiators bounce heat back into the room. Cost: around £5–£10 per radiator.
9. Seal Up Your Loft Hatch
Even if your loft is insulated, heat escapes through gaps around the loft hatch. Add draught-stripping tape around the edges and consider a loft hatch insulator. This is one of the most overlooked sources of heat loss.
10. Only Heat the Rooms You Use
Turn off radiators in rooms you're not using. Fitting thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs) on individual radiators lets you control the temperature room by room. Potential saving: £50–£75 per year.
The Bigger Picture
These quick wins work even better alongside larger improvements. If you're planning insulation, a boiler upgrade, or double glazing, start with an EPC to see which improvements will give you the best return.
Get your EPC → and find out exactly where your home is losing energy.
