As autumn arrives, thoughts are turning towards two things: the autumn budget and the inevitable rise in fuel bills. With most households keen to make savings where they can, making small, simple changes around your home can make a noticeable difference to your monthly bill. The good news is that you don’t always need professional help; a few quick DIY checks can help keep your home warmer and your bills lower this season.
Check for draughts
Cold draughts are one of the biggest culprits when it comes to heat loss. Walk around your home and feel for chilly air coming through doors, windows, or even letterboxes. Simple fixes like self-adhesive draught strips, brush seals, or a low-cost draught excluder can make an immediate difference.
Inspect window seals
Damaged or worn seals around double glazing let warm air escape. A quick check of the rubber seals can show if they need repairing. Resealing windows with silicone or fitting secondary glazing film is a cost-effective DIY project that reduces heat loss.
Bleed your radiators
If your radiators feel warm at the bottom but cold at the top, trapped air is stopping them from heating efficiently. Bleeding radiators is a quick job with a radiator key and can significantly improve heating performance, reducing wasted energy.
Adjust your boiler settings
Many UK homes have boilers running hotter than they need to. Turning down the flow temperature (not the thermostat) to around 60°C can reduce energy usage without affecting comfort. Always check your boiler’s manual for safe adjustment.
Check loft insulation
Heat rises, and without proper insulation it escapes straight through the roof. Take a look in your loft – if insulation is less than 270mm thick, topping it up is one of the most effective ways to save money long-term. Rolls of insulation are widely available at DIY stores.
Monitor appliance energy use
Some appliances continue to draw electricity even when not in use. Check for devices left on standby and switch them off at the plug. Consider using smart plugs or timers to better control usage, especially for items like heaters or tumble dryers.
Fit reflective radiator panels
Radiators on external walls can lose a lot of heat. Installing reflective foil panels behind them is a quick DIY job that bounces heat back into the room instead of letting it escape through the wall.
Review lighting
As daylight fades earlier in autumn, we rely more on artificial light. Replacing old bulbs with LEDs is one of the simplest swaps you can make – and it can save up to 80% on lighting costs.
Small steps add up, and the sooner you start, the more you’ll save as the colder months approach. If you’re not confident doing these checks yourself, or you just don’t have the time, help is at hand with Trust A Trader. A reliable handyman should be able to help you with most of these tasks, and will let you know if you need to contact a specialist double-glazing, boiler, or insulation specialist. Want to know more? Follow us on Facebook or X.