Cutting heating costs

The most effective tips for cutting heating costs:

Effective immediately (€0 cost):

• 1°C lower: saves 6% on heating costs. From 22°C to 20°C = 12% savings
• Ventilate properly: short bursts of airing (window wide open for 5 min.) instead of leaving it tilted. Saves up to €200/year
• Keep radiators clear: no furniture or curtains in front of them
• Bleed the radiators: gurgling radiators use more energy. Bleed key: €3
• Turn down at night: 16–17°C in the bedroom is enough

With a small investment:

• Thermostatic valves (programmable): €20–50 each. The heating switches off when you're not there. Saves 10–15%
• Reflective foil behind radiators: €10, reflects heat back into the room
• Door and window seals: €5–15, stops draughts

Typical savings potential: €150–400/year – without any loss of comfort.