Households are being urged to throw open their curtains and blinds this autumn and winter in a bid to keep their house warm and save on heating and energy bills.
It feels like just five minutes ago that we were all slamming our windows shut and closing curtains and blinds to try to keep our houses cool in the heatwaves.
But now, with temperatures dropping and the colder winter nights drawing in, experts are recommending we all do the exact opposite during the daytime and keep curtains and blinds open. The same exact science is behind it – just as the hot sun warms up your house even faster when it blazes through your open curtains in the summer, the sunshine also helps warm your house in winter.
Though the effect obviously isn’t as pronounced as during the summer, even the weak winter daylight helps to heat up your house in winter, and it’s free, saving money on heating bills.
The British Red Cross says: “Open your curtains during the day – the sun still provides warmth even in the winter months. Make sure you close them as soon as the sun sets to keep the warm air in.
“Investing in thicker curtains, or thermal curtain liners, will help keep the cold air out and prevent heat loss.”
DIY superstore B&Q, in its advice on keeping your house warm in the winter, says that you need to make sure you have thick, insulating curtains and keep them closed overnight to trap in as much heat as possible. But on the flipside, you should open them during the day.
It says: “Cold air and draughts can come in around windowpanes. If your curtains are past their best, or unlined, investing in a new pair is a great way to block the cold air from coming into your room. And let’s face it, it’s the perfect excuse to give your room a new look!
“Remember, the heavier the curtain, the better it’s insulating effect. In general, lined curtains offer greater insulation than non-lined.
“If you want to keep your home extra warm, leave your curtains closed when you’re out, and shut them before it gets dark. Keep the curtains open during the day to let the sun warm the room – it’s free too!”
British Gas today warned households that the temperature is set to plunge by 10C over the next week and is urging people to make sure they’re ready for the sudden cold snap.