How to keep your home cosy and energy-efficient this autumn

As the days get shorter and the temperatures start to drop, many of us are getting ready to cosy up indoors. Autumn’s a lovely time of year, but it can also mean a rise in energy bills if we’re not careful. At Three Sixty Living, we know how important it is to keep your home warm and welcoming without breaking the bank, so we’ve pulled together some simple tips to help you stay cosy and energy-efficient this season.

Get your heating ready

Before the really chilly days hit, it’s a good idea to check that your heating system is in tip-top shape. If your home has radiators, give them a quick bleed to make sure they’re working efficiently – trapped air can stop them from heating up properly. And don’t forget to check your boiler! If there are any issues, report hem early to avoid being left in the cold.

Make the most of natural heat

Autumn days might be cooler, but we still get plenty of sunshine. Make the most of it! During the day, open your curtains or blinds to let the sunlight warm up your rooms naturally. As soon as the sun sets, close them to keep the heat in. You’ll be surprised how much warmth escapes through windows if they’re left uncovered at night.

Layer up

We’re all guilty of cranking up the thermostat a bit too high sometimes. Instead, try layering up with cosy jumpers, woolly socks and blankets. Keeping yourself warm rather than heating the whole house can make a big difference to your energy bills. A hot water bottle or heated blanket can be a game-changer on those really cold evenings too.

Keep draughts at bay

Draughts are one of the biggest culprits for losing heat in a home. Check around windows and doors for any gaps where cold air might be sneaking in. Draught excluders, weatherstrips and even a rolled up towel can do wonders for blocking out unwanted cold air. You can also report any significant draughts to us, and we’ll help you get them sorted.

Be smart with your heating

If you’ve got a programmable thermostat, use it to your advantage. Set your heating to come on just before you wake up or get home, rather than leaving it running all day. Even turning your thermostat down by just 1 degree can make a noticeable difference to your energy use and you probably won’t even feel the change.

Energy-efficient lighting

As the nights draw in, we’ll all be using our lights more often. Now’s a great time to switch to energy-efficient bulbs like LEDs, which use far less energy than traditional bulbs and last longer too. And remember to switch off the lights when you leave the room. Every little helps!

Be mindful of appliances

We all rely on our home appliances, but they can be sneaky energy guzzlers if we’re not careful. Try to wait until you’ve got a full load before running the washing machine or dishwasher, and if possible, use the eco settings to save energy. You can also avoid using the tumble dryer where you can. Air drying your clothes indoors is cheaper and the added moisture can help combat dry indoor air.

Stay safe

With the colder months comes the temptation to use extra heaters and appliances to stay warm, but it’s important to stay safe. Never use gas cookers or barbecues for heating, and be cautious when using electric heaters and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. If you have any concerns about the safety of your heating appliances, get in touch with straight away.

Reach out for help

If you’re worried about your energy bills this autumn, don’t hesitate to reach out. Whether it’s advice on how to be more energy-efficient or help with managing costs, there’s support available. At Three Sixty Living, we’re here to offer guidance and assistance wherever possible and can put you in touch with our Energy Advice or Money Advice teams.

Autumn is a beautiful season, but it’s also a time when our homes can feel the chill. By making a few small changes, you can keep your space warm, welcoming and energy-efficient without seeing a big spike in your bills. Remember, we’re always here to help if you need us, so don’t hesitate to get in touch if you’ve got any concerns about your home. Stay warm, cosy and enjoy all the lovely things that autumn has to offer!