Small measures 'can help keep bills down'

31 October 2007

There are lots of small improvements homeowners can make to ensure they stay warm and keep their heating costs down this winter, according to a leading house builder.

Heating oil is expected to reach a record high price this winter and the Met Office has predicted temperatures will be noticeably colder than during last year's winter, so energy-saving measures that keep fuel bills down are likely to be particularly useful.

Rob Allen of Persimmon Homes explained that many of the actions that help to stop heat escaping from a home are relatively simple, such as hanging a door curtain, using draught excluders and fitting a letterbox cover.

"You can help stop heat from rising and escaping by installing a foil radiator panel behind a radiator which will reflect the heat back into the room," he continued.

Paying attention to the central heating system will also help and bleeding radiators, having the boiler serviced, and adding a system water softener will ensure it runs efficiently, Mr Allen added.