The harsh winter weather that is sweeping the country has the nation gripped in a bitter battle against raging winter storms.
Weather experts expect the cold snap to continue for some time and this means the country may face many days of cold weather and icy roads. For this reason, homeowners are being urged to take extra care when both inside the home and outdoors.
Many should also take extra measures to heat their home and stay warm in order to avoid the risk of becoming ill or increasing damp within their property.
A large proportion of UK households are concerned about the cost of keeping their home warm, with millions falling into fuel poverty following drastic price hikes.
Fuel poverty is when more than a half of a household income is spent on energy bills. Households with young children and elderly residents are particularly vulnerable to this situation, placing them into a high risk category as more cold weather is forecast.
Despite the shortest day of the year having passed and nights getting lighter, the temperature has dropped dramatically over the first couple of months of 2012, leaving Brits to face Arctic weather conditions.
To cope with these changes, households are becoming more dependent on heating and this generates concerns about the cost. Luckily, Brits don’t have to sacrifice their warmth and comfort to save money and there are plenty of ways to reduce their heating bills.
Responsible heating
Whilst no one is in the property, it is advisable to turn the heating off. Most home heating devices have a timer which can be set, turning the heating on and off at set times of the day. For example, the heating could be turned off at night when residents are likely to be in bed.
Brits are also urged to wrap up appropriately and take a hot water bottle to bed. For those who feel the cold more than others, it may prove useful to invest in a winter duvet. Once such steps have been taken there should be no need to leave the heating on for several hours at night, thus reducing bills.
Insulation
Depending on how well insulated the property is, you can take extra precautions to ensure that your home is made warmer.
Regardless of if the home has double or single glazing, it is advisable to keep the curtains closed, especially at night.
This could help increase heat retention, keeping homes warm without the need to increase the temperature on the thermostat.
Price comparisons
Alternatively, if bills are not reduced through the above methods then consumers can compare electricity prices and switch providers to obtain a better deal.
This is a great way for households to ensure their bills are addressed on a long term basis, helping consumers to save money even when the weather improves.
These savings can place households in a more secure financial position, helping them to cope with any further economic difficulties which may be encountered over coming months.