UK households have been urged to shut their blinds at an exact time this week as temperatures start to drop. Experts say this will help save on heating bills in the awkward Autumn period, when it’s not quite cold enough for the radiators, but not warm enough to feel cosy.
Around 18% of heat is lost through windows, and it’s lost twice as fast through single glazing compared to double, according to government material. Allan Reid, a double-glazed windows expert at Art Windows and Doors, explained glass becomes a “fast-track escape route for heat” the moment the sun drops below the horizon. He advised homeowners should close all blinds, curtains, and shutters between 5.30pm and 6.30pm, “as soon as the dimming light signals the start of the evening”.
He explained: “This creates an important layer of insulation, trapping the residual warmth your home has absorbed all day. It’s the easiest, free way to save energy before you even think about touching the thermostat.”
In just a few weeks on October 26, households will have to adapt the time as clocks go back and Britain returns to Greenwich Mean Time (GMT).
While the windows are crucial, Reid highlighted three other areas in the home where warmth is silently escaping.
For radiators mounted on external walls, he warned that much of the heat is conducted through the wall and lost to the outside. He suggested placing sheets of reflective foil—either specific radiator foil or thick kitchen foil—behind the radiator.
This simple hack reflects the escaping heat back into the room, which he added is especially beneficial in older homes with uninsulated cavity walls.
The letter box and even the keyhole could cause a major draught, according to the window expert. These seemingly tiny spots act as draught funnels, bringing cold air directly into your main hallway.
He recommended using a brush strip or a flap cover on your letterbox, and a small lock cover over keyholes.
Finally, ensure sofas, large chairs, and even heavy curtains are not directly blocking radiators, with the experts warning that a large piece of furniture placed right against a radiator can absorb a huge portion of the emitted heat.
They recommended pulling furniture just six inches away from the radiator to allow warm air to rise and move freely.