With the clocks moving back an hour and the days growing darker, it’s clear winter has made its way to Britain. Time to dig out our winter clothes, set up our thermostats, wrap up warm and prepare to brave the cold outside. On our return home, we’ll pop the kettle on, grab a cosy blanket and crank the heating up.

Unfortunately, energy prices have skyrocketed in the past year, meaning we’re spending more than ever to keep our homes toasty. With many Brits now working from home, this sudden rise is even more of a concern, as experts warn bills could increase by another 30% in 2022. Many are looking for ways to cut costs and save their hard-earned cash. Here, we investigate how to insulate your home this winter and reduce your energy bill.

Rearrange your furniture

Making a change as small as rearranging your furniture could instantly improve the warmth of your space. Large items such as sofas and cabinets can block heat if placed in front of a radiator or heating device. To prevent this, ensure anything designed to emit heat is not obstructed – your space will quickly feel warmer, and you won’t be racking up your energy bills in vain.

Draught-proof your home

Draught-proofing closes unwanted gaps around doors and windows. Heat can easily escape your house from these gaps, so draught-proofing could make your home warmer and more comfortable while reducing the cost of your heating bills.

It’s a simple DIY task, but hiring a professional will make it easier, particularly if your home is older and doesn’t have double-glazed glass. Professional draught-proofing may also be more effective than a DIY job, as they will know exactly which materials work best and how to apply them for optimal results.

Incorporate carpets and rugs

Carpeted floors will help insulate your home and keep you warm over winter. You’re also likely to spend less money on heating, as introducing a few rugs will add a further layer of insulation, making it even harder for heat to escape the room. Bonus: a big fluffy rug is the perfect resting place for tired feet after a long day!

If you have wooden flooring or tiles, consider fitting a high-quality carpet in the rooms you spend the most time in. Buying and fitting carpet isn’t cheap; however, it will be a worthwhile investment in the long run. Look carefully at your finances before making any big investments.

Use heavyweight curtains

Fit the main rooms around the house with heavyweight curtains to help insulate the space. Leave them open during the day until around 3pm, so you can make the most of any warmth from the sun. Closing the curtains as it gets dark will lock in the warmth from the daytime and your heating system.