Keep your home warm, efficiently and safely
Remember to:
- heat your home to at least 18°C in winter poses minimal risk to your health when you are wearing suitable clothing
- get your heating system and cooking appliances checked and keep your home well ventilated
- use your electric blanket as instructed and get it tested every three years
- never use a hot water bottle with an electric blanket
- not use a gas cooker or oven to heat your home; it is inefficient and there is a risk of carbon monoxide poisoning and this can kill; and
- make sure you have a supply of heating oil or LPG or sold fuel if you are not on mains gas or electricity – to make sure you do not run out in winter.
Keep in the warmth by:
- fitting draught proofing to seal any gaps around windows and doors
- making sure you have loft insulation. And if you have cavity walls, make sure they are insulated too
- insulate your hot water cylinder and pipes
- draw your curtains at dusk to help keep heat generated inside your rooms; and
- make sure your radiators are not obstructed by furniture or curtains.
Get financial support
There are grants, benefits and sources of advice to make your home more energy efficient, improve your heating or help with bills. The Better Homes, Better Health scheme provides a free package of support to help Hounslow residents improve their homes, keep warm and save money on energy bills.
Free home visits may be available.
Call the number on 0300 365 3005 for further advice.
