Homeowners might need to think about making an important change over the winter months
People who regularly use portable heaters have been urged to consider swapping to a more energy-efficient method. While portable heaters are often popular among homeowners during the winter months, they may be increasing your energy bill more than necessary.
Advice on the Citizens Advice website states: “Try not to use portable heaters for long periods of time. They usually cost a lot more to run than turning on your central heating or using storage heaters. If your central heating boiler isn’t working, you should fix or replace your boiler if you can. It’s much more expensive to use portable heaters on their own.”
Nonetheless, portable heaters could be useful for many homeowners. For people who choose to use the devices, it’s important to follow the safety instructions included with the heaters and general safety guidelines.
For instance, it’s advised that heaters should be kept away from bedding, blankets, curtains, and furniture; they should be in good working order; and you should sit at least one meter away from a heater, in case it catches fire and ignites your clothes or chair.
According to the London Fire Brigade, ‘fires involving heaters seem to have a particularly high fatality rate.’ The fire and rescue service’s website states: “Remember, over 160 fires are caused by electric heaters every year.
“Tragically, a third of electrical fires that ended in a fatality involved heaters. Don’t take risks with old heaters – if it’s electrical and getting older, get it tested by a qualified electrician or buy a new one.”
For similar reasons, it’s crucial to follow safety guidelines when using electric blankets or similar devices. London Fire Brigade states: “Unplug blankets before you get into bed, unless it has a thermostat control for safe all-night use.
“Never use an electric blanket if you have an air flow pressure relief mattress, or use emollient creams. Never use a hot water bottle at the same time as using your electric blanket. Do not buy second-hand electric blankets.
“Remember to check regularly for wear and tear and replace at least every 10 years. Store electric blankets flat, rolled up or loosely folded to prevent damaging the internal wiring.”
People looking to warm up their home and retain the heat could benefit from making their home more energy efficient. Citizens Advice says methods include improving your home’s insulation or installing a more efficient heating system, such as a heat pump.
Guidance on the website explains: “You might be able to use less energy by making changes to your home or asking your landlord to make changes – these are called ‘energy efficiency home improvements’. These changes reduce the amount of energy you need to keep your home warm.”
