Top 5 Winter Energy Mistakes
Avoid These Winter Energy Mistakes to Save Heat and Cut Bills
As winter sets in and temperatures drop, it’s natural to turn up the heating and get cosy indoors. But many homeowners unknowingly fall into common winter energy mistakes that waste heat, increase bills, and put extra strain on their systems.
From draughty windows to poor thermostat habits, these small oversights can make a big difference to both comfort and cost. The good news? With a few simple changes, you can stay warm, cut energy waste, and keep your home running efficiently all season long.
In this guide, we’ll explore the top five winter energy mistakes – and share practical ways to avoid them.
As temperatures drop, many homeowners unknowingly fall into common winter energy mistakes that drive up heating bills and waste valuable energy. The good news? With a few simple changes, you can keep your home warm, efficient, and eco-friendly all winter long.
Here are the top five winter energy mistakes – and exactly how to avoid them.
1. Ignoring Draughts and Poor Insulation
One of the biggest winter energy mistakes is failing to tackle draughts and heat loss. Even the best heating system can’t work efficiently if warm air escapes through poorly insulated walls, roofs, or windows.
Common causes:
- Gaps around windows and doors
- Thin loft or wall insulation
- Single or damaged glazing
How to fix it:
Seal up draughts, add loft insulation, and think about upgrading to double or triple glazing. A well-insulated home keeps the warmth in, cuts down on heating demand, and reduces your carbon footprint – a win for both comfort and cost.
2. Overheating your home
Many households make the winter energy mistake of setting the thermostat too high. Turning it up doesn’t heat your home faster – it just uses more energy and increases your bills unnecessarily.
How to fix it:
Set your thermostat between 18°C and 20°C for comfortable, efficient heating. Use programmable timers or smart thermostats to manage temperature automatically when you’re away or asleep.
3. Skipping Heating System Maintenance
Ignoring annual maintenance is another costly winter energy mistake. A neglected boiler or heat pump loses efficiency over time and is more likely to break down in cold weather.
How to fix it:
Schedule professional servicing every year – ideally before winter. For air source heat pumps, regular maintenance ensures optimal performance, longevity, and energy efficiency.
4. Blocking Radiators and Vents
You’d be surprised how often furniture, curtains, or clutter block radiators and vents – a subtle but common winter energy mistake that prevents proper heat circulation.
How to fix it:
Keep radiators and air vents clear to allow warm air to move freely. If you have underfloor heating, avoid thick rugs or large furniture that can trap heat beneath them.
5. Ignoring Renewable Energy Opportunities
Relying entirely on fossil fuels is one of the biggest long-term winter energy mistakes. Modern renewable systems not only save money but also protect you from rising energy costs.
How to fix it:
Consider integrating air source heat pumps, solar PV panels, or battery storage into your home. These systems reduce reliance on the grid, cut carbon emissions, and future-proof your energy setup.
Avoid Winter Energy Mistakes with Radiant Renewables
By avoiding these winter energy mistakes, you’ll enjoy a warmer, more efficient home while reducing your environmental impact.
At Radiant Renewables, we help homeowners across the East Midlands design and install smart, sustainable heating and energy systems – including air source heat pumps, solar PV, and underfloor heating.
Ready to reduce your winter energy bills?
👉 Contact Radiant Renewables today to discuss your home’s efficiency and renewable energy options.