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How to keep your home warm during winter
Back to Cosyfeet Blog
14 December 2022

How to keep your home warm during winter

With gas and energy prices on the rise, we have created a helpful guide on how best to keep your home warm and comfortable during the winter.

When the temperature plummets and you can feel a nip in the air, it is time to turn your attention to making your home a cosy and tranquil place.

What temperature should rooms be during the winter?

Cold weather thickens the blood and can increase blood pressure, while breathing in cold air can increase the risk of chest infections, says the Met Office, which is why it is imperative to ensure your home is the correct temperature when the thermometer starts to drop.

The Met Office suggests homes should be heated to a temperature of at least 18°C: “This is particularly important if you have reduced mobility, are 65 or over, or have a health condition, such as heart or lung disease. Having room temperatures slightly over 18°C could be good for your health. If you are under the age of 65, active and wearing appropriate clothing, you may wish to keep your home at a comfortable temperature even if it is slightly lower than 18°C.”

The UK’s national meteorological service also recommends people should keep their bedroom windows closed at night during cold snaps to help keep homes warm.

Book a boiler service

Plumber servicing a boiler

The Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (CIPHE) recommends boilers should receive an annual service to ensure that it not only runs efficiently and safely for the year ahead, but it also validates any warrantees on the appliance. The CIPHE states: “Regular maintenance minimises the risk of breakdown and helps lengthen the lifespan of your boiler too. Regularly servicing your boiler ensures it is combusting fuel safely and efficiently, minimising the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. And for the elderly, vulnerable or those with young children, ensuring you have a working boiler is a must for the months ahead. While for most of us, the boiler breaking down is an inconvenience, for some, a lack of heating and hot water can have severe health and financial repercussions.”

Heating engineers across the country will be inundated with emergency call-outs during the colder months, so it is worth booking a boiler service with a plumber as soon as possible. Check that your chosen tradesman has a CORGI registration which means they are legally permitted to carry out any plumbing work involving gas.

Bleed your radiators

Another quick and simple way to ensure your home stays warm this winter is to check your radiators are heating to the top.

If your radiators are only hot at the bottom, then chances are you will need to bleed them, British Gas provide a helpful step-by-step guide on how to bleed your radiators.

Invest in quality blankets and spend an evening relaxing

Woman sat in front of a fire with a book and hot drink

Plush, oversized and cosy creations have become popular from both a decorative point of view, as well as warmth.

Many people start pulling out their chunky-knit blankets as soon as trees start shedding their leaves and frost settles on the ground. The combination of spending an evening snuggled up on the settee under a warm blanket with a hot beverage and a book can be the perfect winter warmer.

Use rugs to help retain heat

Black and white rug inside a living room

A simple addition such as a rug is not only a decorative feature, but can also help by being a form of insulation.

However, while rugs look great and can help keep a room warm, it is important to be aware they can also potentially create a trip-hazard.

Use draught excluders

With a variety of draught excluders available in the shops, you are bound to find something that helps keep your home warm as well as adding a touch of colour and style.

Draught excluders are a simple and cost-effective way to help keep your home warmer in the winter and can be placed along door and window frames to stop cold air from creeping in.

Re-arrange your furniture

Sitting near a window can cause radiant heat loss from the body to the glass, which makes you feel cold. Similarly, if you sit in your favourite armchair in front of the radiator, you could be blocking out heat. Be sure to avoid any obstruction which may block the warmth from circulating the room.



We hope we have inspired you with our helpful guide as the weather starts to turn colder, whilst it’s worth embracing this wonderful time of year, be sure to keep warm and cosy.