How to keep warm in cold weather when the budget is squeezed

Sub-zero temperatures are hitting the UK just as gas and electricity prices have soared for millions of households.

Energy bills are approx. 50% higher than pre-Covid levelsMany are struggling to meet the cost along with other financial demands.

So what can you do to stay warm while keeping costs down?

Keeping warm during the winter months can help prevent colds, flu and more serious health problems such as heart attack, stroke, pneumonia and depression. According to the NHS.

Pensioners, children under five, people with health conditions and pregnant women are most at risk.

So, stay Safe and sound should be preferred.Even when it puts a strain on finances. The bottom line is that gas appliances are safe to use when they can be turned on infrequently.

Family, friends and neighbors can play their part by making sure anyone who is more vulnerable takes precautions when out on icy pavements, or The house is well stocked with food and medicine..

Many charities and councils operate. Hot center In places like libraries, the cash-strapped have somewhere to go – but care must be taken if walking in snowy or icy weather.

Before arguing with family or flatmates about heating, try visiting the property to work out how to save energy.

This may include Switching off radiators in unused roomsswitching Lights off When they are not needed, and Do not leave electrical appliances on standby..

There should be curtains Opened during the day, then retracted at dusk..

Manage your drafts by placing a black bag with scrap paper over an unused fireplace, or try to limit other drafts around the house. You can easily. Delete your draft.. Can be a cold, hard floor Covered by a carpet If you have.

Layer up, use a safe hot water bottle, and make sure you have warm night clothes.

When it comes to heating, there’s a lot of debate about whether it’s more efficient to keep it constantly low than to turn it on and off as needed.

Experts don’t have a clear answer on this, as it often depends on the circumstances of the home, but it’s probably not the best option for most people.

In general, a room temperature between 18C and 21C is ideal for most, but dropping it a degree can save money.

For older people, and those in poor health, it is best not to let the temperature drop below 18C in rooms that are used regularly.

Making sure curtains are not sitting in front of radiators. This will help ensure that the heat will be retained. Removing furniture From radiators

Consider the fitting. Radiator reflector panelsThis can be a long term task though.

Even with little motivation while stuck at home, eating properly is more important than ever.

Age UK says that warming foods, eg Soups and stewsand hot drinks like tea can help keep you warm. People should try to have at least one hot meal and as many hot drinks a day as possible. Supermarket brand tins can be cheaper, so keep a close eye on prices. Food banks Even if you are short of money, you can help.

take care Do not overfill the kettle By measuring what is necessary to keep costs down. Beach cooking can also help. Don’t forget fruit and vegetables – the latter can be cooked with a steamer on the same hob instead of using different ones.

When washing, if your hot water is too hot to wash your hands, your The setting is probably too high. So turn down the boiler. Wash at 30C.not 40C

Keep going As much as you can between meals. It will help your mental health as well as your physical health.

As tempting as it is to soak in the shower forever, experts recommend limiting that time to four minutes. Oh A playlist of four minute songs can help.

If you are struggling financially, local councils and energy suppliers should be able to provide some support.

In fact, a supplier is bound to help if you’re falling behind on your energy bill.

Anyone on a prepaid meter who can’t afford a top-up can ask for one. A fuel voucher From their supplier, or through their council.

Local authorities may also be able to provide help with the cost of living through a household assistance fund. You can find your local council here..

There are many other grants and benefits that people may be entitled to, but are not claiming. During extended periods of sub-zero temperatures, Cold weather pay will be made.

Claiming during the current winter may not be an immediate fix, but may help the rest of the winter. Citizens Advice should help navigate what can be claimed..

Grants are available for long-term work, from insulation to upgrading heating systems, but time should be taken to research such work and applicants should be wary of scams.