Measures to prevent winter problems

As November arrives, the days become darker and colder, making it a season where we long for comforts like kotatsu (Japanese heated table) and hot pots. In the chilly winter of the UK, everyone wishes to spend time comfortably in a warm room. However, with the recent surge in utility costs, especially concerns about electricity usage, are likely on many minds. While reducing utility costs to zero is practically impossible, let's make efforts to minimize them, maintain good health, and overcome the cold winter.

Heating and hot water account for more than half of the average household's utility costs. Here, we introduce low-cost and no-cost simple actions.

Means to Reduce Energy Usage/Utility Costs at Home:

Lower the Flow Temperature of the Boiler If you use a combination boiler (instantaneous water heater), adjusting the 'flow temperature' dial/setting to 60 degrees can improve the efficiency of heating water. Lowering the flow temperature, unlike using a thermostat to lower the temperature, does not significantly affect the home's temperature, but it may take a bit longer to warm up. Consider setting the flow temperature to 65 degrees for those aged 65 and above, children under 5, or those with existing health issues, as this may help the home warm up faster.
→ Up to £60 savings (per year)

Lower the Temperature of Hot Water in the Tank to 60°C For heating systems with a separate hot water tank rather than a combination boiler, reducing the tank temperature prevents unnecessary heating of excess hot water, thus reducing utility costs. However, do not lower the temperature below 60°C, as this may allow Legionella bacteria to survive, posing a risk of Legionnaires' disease.
→ Up to £20 savings (per year)

Set Radiator Valve in Unused Rooms to a Low Setting Completely turning off radiators is inefficient in terms of energy, as the boiler will exert excessive effort to maintain room temperature. Moreover, turning off radiators may lead to mold and humidity issues. For those aged 65 and above, children under 5, and those with existing health issues, maintaining a sufficiently warm environment and setting the indoor minimum temperature to 18°C is advisable.
→ Up to £50 savings (per year)

Install an Energy-Efficient Shower Head High-efficiency shower heads regulate water flow, mix air with water, and reduce usage, thereby saving both water and energy. These can be purchased at home improvement stores and easily installed. Some water companies may provide these for free. (*Not suitable for electric showers.)
→ Up to £40 savings (per year)

Cold-Water Laundry Modern washing machines can effectively clean laundry at lower temperatures. Changing from 40°C to 30°C may allow three laundry cycles with the same amount of energy.
→ Up to £20 savings (per year)

Reduce the Frequency of Tumble Dryer Use Tumble dryers are among the most energy-consuming devices in households. Increase natural drying by hanging laundry in well-ventilated areas and reduce the frequency of tumble dryer use. When using it, fill the drum to about half its capacity, as overloading increases drying time and energy consumption. Items with easy-to-dry fibers can be air-dried, while those with slower-drying fibers may be suitable for the dryer.
→ Up to £50 savings (per year)

Turn Off Appliances at the Socket Most appliances continue to consume electricity continuously unless the power is turned off. Turn off the socket switch or unplug appliances when not in use.
→ Up to £50 savings (per year)

Switch to Energy-Efficient Bulbs Traditional incandescent bulbs are inefficient. Switching to energy-efficient bulbs like LED can brighten the room adequately while saving on utility costs. LED bulbs last longer than traditional ones, leading to savings in maintenance costs. The amount of light and its color (from white to yellow) do not affect the bulb's energy usage, allowing for the same brightness at a lower cost.
→ Up to £40 savings (per year)

Draft Prevention Draft prevention is one of the most affordable and effective ways to prevent cold air from entering and warm air from escaping, thus reducing utility costs. Seal gaps around windows, doors, chimneys, and floors to prevent cold air from entering and warm air from escaping. Using window film can also prevent heat from escaping through the glass.
→ Up to £50 savings (per year)

Reducing utility costs while taking measures against the cold contributes to environmental conservation. Let's overcome the chilly winter in London in a healthy, comfortable, and eco-friendly manner.

Reference: https://helpforhouseholds.campaign.gov.uk/energy-saving-advice/