Simple 99p tip 'keeps you warm' says expert from one of world's coldest countries

With energy costs still a consideration for many, keeping the heating on as little as possible will be welcome

hands over a radiator

Foil behind radiators can help (Image: Getty)

While the UK has enjoyed a warm spell over the past week or so, Brits know that things are sure to change soon enough, with autumn just around the corner. In light of energy costs rising 10% at the start of October, people will be continuing to look to minimise heating use.

Yet, battling the cold doesn't have to equate to empty pockets. An expert in energy conservation has disclosed ingenious and wallet-friendly methods for folks to remain snug as temperatures drop.

Braving harsh sub-zero winters is commonplace in Finland, so Teemu Salminen, CEO of Finnish electricity comparison website Sahkosopimukset, brings invaluable wisdom for beating back the chill.

Radiator foil trick

Teemu advocates for a simple yet significant move: "One of the cheapest and most effective hacks is placing reflective foil behind radiators, particularly those attached to external walls. Available for as little as 99p from supermarkets, foil reflects heat back into the room instead of allowing it to escape through walls. It's an affordable DIY job that can significantly improve the efficiency of your heating."

Layer-up

He also suggests wearing multiple layers as a straightforward strategy for personal warmth, reports Teesside Live.

Teemu advised: "While adding extra layers is an obvious choice, there's a smart way to do it for maximum warmth. The key is to wear a base layer that wicks moisture away, such as thermal or merino wool. Then, follow it with a mid-layer like fleece, which traps body heat, and finally, a windproof outer layer. This combination prevents heat loss while also managing moisture, keeping you warm and dry."

Use draught excluders

Teemu suggested: "Draughts drastically reduce the overall warmth in your home. Check for draughts around doors, windows, and even letterboxes. An easy and cheap fix is to use draught excluders, which can be made from old socks or towels rolled up and placed along the bottom of doors."

Warm your bed the old-school way

Teemu recommended: "Electric blankets or heated mattress pads can be a bit pricey to run, but there is an alternative. Warm up your bed the old-fashioned way by filling a couple of hot water bottles and placing them under your blankets 20 minutes before bed. It's cheap and effective, and you can move them around to different parts of your body for instant warmth."

Make more home-cooked meals

Teemu stated: "There's a double benefit to cooking more during winter. Not only does cooking generate heat, but using your oven or stovetop more frequently can warm up your kitchen and surrounding rooms. To take advantage of this, leave the oven door open after cooking to let the residual heat escape throughout the house."

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