Top 10 Tips for Keeping Your Flat Warm This Winter

As winter arrives, keeping your flat warm becomes crucial for comfort and saving energy. Many flats, especially older ones, struggle with issues like drafts, inefficient heating, and poor insulation. In this blog, we'll explore why flats get cold and share practical tips to help you keep your home cosy throughout winter. Whether you need to improve insulation, find efficient heaters, or use natural warmth effectively, we've got simple solutions to ensure your home stays warm and comfortable.

Why does my flat get so cold?

Flats often feel chilly due to drafts from windows and doors, outdated heating systems that struggle to keep up, limited sunlight exposure during shorter winter days, and thin walls that lose heat quickly. Understanding these factors can help you tackle the cold and create a warmer living environment.

Drafts and poor insulation

Flats, especially older ones, often suffer from drafts that allow cold air to seep in through windows, doors, and walls. These gaps not only make it difficult to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature but also contribute to higher heating costs. Poor insulation further exacerbates the problem by failing to retain heat effectively within the living space. Addressing drafts and improving insulation are crucial steps towards creating a warmer and more energy-efficient flat during the winter months.

Inefficient heating systems

Many rental flats come equipped with outdated or inefficient heating systems that struggle to adequately warm the space. These systems often result in uneven heating distribution and higher energy bills. Due to their inefficiency, they may fail to provide sufficient warmth, especially during colder weather. Upgrading to more energy-efficient heating options can significantly improve comfort levels and reduce heating costs over time.

Lack of sunlight

Limited sunlight exposure during winter months contributes to cooler indoor temperatures in flats. Shorter daylight hours and overcast weather reduce the amount of natural heat entering the living space. This lack of sunlight can make it challenging to maintain warmth indoors, necessitating alternative strategies to keep your flat comfortable during the colder seasons.

The best reasons for keeping your flat warm

Ensuring your flat stays warm during winter is vital for comfort and well-being. A heated home not only keeps you cosy but also supports better health, prevents energy waste, and creates a comfortable environment for everyday living.

Health and comfort

A warm flat is crucial for your well-being and comfort, especially during the winter months. Cold environments can aggravate health conditions such as colds, flu, and respiratory issues. By maintaining a consistently warm temperature indoors, you create a more comfortable living environment that supports overall health and reduces the risk of winter-related illnesses. Prioritising warmth in your flat is not just about comfort—it's about nurturing a healthier and more pleasant living space throughout the colder seasons.

Energy efficiency

Achieving energy efficiency in heating your flat is beneficial for both your finances and the environment. By implementing efficient heating solutions and improving insulation, you can reduce energy consumption and lower heating bills. This not only saves you money but also reduces your carbon footprint, contributing to a more sustainable lifestyle. Investing in energy-efficient practices ensures that your flat remains warm and comfortable while minimising energy waste.

10 tips to keep your flat warm this winter

Ready to make your flat warmer this winter? Here are practical tips to help you combat the cold and create a cosy living space. From simple draft-proofing techniques to maximising natural sunlight and choosing the right heating solutions, these tips will ensure your home stays comfortably warm throughout the season.

1. Draft proofing

Drafts can significantly impact the warmth of your flat by allowing cold air to seep in through gaps around windows and doors. Addressing these drafts with simple solutions like weather stripping and draft excluders can effectively minimise heat loss and enhance comfort. Implementing draft-proofing measures is a cost-effective way to improve insulation and maintain a consistent indoor temperature during winter.

2. Thermal curtains

Investing in thermal curtains is a practical way to retain heat and block drafts in your flat. These curtains are designed to provide insulation by trapping heat inside and preventing cold air from entering through windows. Keeping thermal curtains closed at night and on chilly days helps maintain a warmer indoor environment efficiently.

3. Portable heaters

Portable heaters are versatile and effective solutions for warming specific areas in your flat. Options like oil-filled radiators or ceramic heaters offer efficient heating without the need for complex installations. They are ideal for targeted warmth in smaller spaces and can be easily moved as needed to optimise comfort throughout your home. Choosing energy-efficient models ensures cost-effective heating while maintaining a cosy environment during colder months.

4. Heat reflectors

Heat reflectors are practical accessories that enhance the efficiency of your heating systems. Placing them behind electric heaters or near heat sources helps to reflect heat back into the room, maximising warmth without increasing energy consumption. They are easy to install and remove, making them a convenient option to improve heating efficiency in your flat.

5. Maximise sunlight

Maximising sunlight is a natural and cost-effective way to warm up your flat during winter. Keep windows clean to allow maximum sunlight penetration into your living space. Open curtains and blinds during the day to let natural heat in, and close them at dusk to retain warmth overnight. This simple strategy helps to naturally increase the temperature indoors and reduce the need for additional heating.

6. Use kitchen heat

Utilising the heat generated from cooking and baking can effectively warm up your flat. After cooking, leave the oven door open to allow residual heat to circulate throughout your kitchen and adjoining spaces. This method helps to optimise energy usage while providing additional warmth, making your flat more comfortable during colder periods.

7. Dress warmly

Wearing layers of clothing indoors is a practical way to stay warm without relying heavily on heating systems. Opt for comfortable, thermal clothing and keep cosy blankets or throws handy for extra warmth. This approach not only helps to maintain personal comfort but also reduces the need for higher heating settings, contributing to energy savings in your flat.

8. LED lighting

Switching to LED bulbs is a smart choice for both energy efficiency and maintaining a warmer flat. LED bulbs produce less heat compared to traditional incandescent bulbs, which helps to reduce energy consumption and lower your overall heating costs. They are also long-lasting and come in various warm tones that can enhance the cosy atmosphere of your home during winter.

9. Dehumidifiers

Using dehumidifiers can contribute to creating a warmer and more comfortable environment in your flat during winter. These devices take moisture from the air, which can make it feel warmer and more pleasant indoors. Opt for small, portable dehumidifiers that are ideal for rental flats, as they are easy to use and maintain. Keeping indoor humidity levels balanced can also help alleviate dry skin and respiratory issues caused by dry winter air.

10. Soft furnishings

Adding soft furnishings like cushions, throws, and rugs can enhance the warmth and comfort of your flat during winter. These items not only create a cosy atmosphere but also provide additional insulation against cold surfaces. Opt for materials like wool or fleece that retain heat well. Pairing soft furnishings with warm-toned lighting can further enhance the inviting ambience of your living space during colder months.

Briscoes has everything you need to keep your flat warm this winter

Keeping your flat warm during winter is crucial for comfort and energy efficiency. By addressing drafts, improving insulation, and using effective heating methods, you can create a cosy and welcoming living space.

Ready to get cosy? Briscoes has everything you need to keep your flat warm this winter.