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Ways to create a cosier and more comfortable space
Everybody wants a home that’s comfortable. Staying warm not only helps us feel comfy while we’re at home, it’s also important for our health.
Our advisors can provide tailored advice that’s specific to your home, and can check your eligibility for financial support including Warmer Homes Scotland, the Home Energy Scotland Grant and Loan and more.
We believe that the key to a warmer home is being in control of your heating system, keeping the heat in and tackling condensation and damp. It’s also a great time to explore whether you could switch to a renewable heating system like an air source heat pump.
Crucially, the finance side of things can sometimes be a barrier and that’s why we’ve also got plenty of information about the financial support that’s on offer from Scottish Government.
Take control of your heating
Over half the typical Scottish energy bill goes on heating and hot water – so ensuring you’ve got a modern system with good controls is a great way to stay warm and avoid hefty bills.
Whatever method you use to heat your home and your water, Energy Saving Trust has some great detailed advice on getting the most out of it, and what to do if you want to replace it with something new. Read more here.
Boilers are a very common way of heating space and hot water at home. If your boiler is struggling to keep up with your household’s requirements, or costing you a lot, it could be time to think about replacing it. Energy Saving Trust has lots of practical information about doing this, and what you should take into consideration. Read more here.
Getting to grips with your heating controls can make a huge difference to how warm your home feels, and how you manage your heating effectively to ensure you’re comfortable and not wasting energy and money. From boiler thermostats and room thermostats to radiator controls and even smartphone apps, there are a range of options available to help you take control. Read more on Energy Saving Trust’s site.
It’s now more affordable than ever to choose a renewable heating option such as an air source heat pump or a biomass boiler. You can read about all kinds of renewables systems on the Energy Saving Trust website. There is financial support for this in Scotland so if you’re interested check out our Find Funding page.
Manage damp and condensation
A build-up of moisture in the home can cause a range of problems and can potentially damage the fabric of the building if allowed to continue. And if mould starts to grow, this can even affect the health of the occupants. Watch our advice video below:
Keep the heat in
Most homes lose heat through walls, the roof, windows and doors as well as under the floor. It’s normal, as warm air travels to colder spaces. But insulating and reducing draughts can reduce heat loss significantly, making your home feel warmer. Good insulation can also keep your bills down – and help you shrink your carbon footprint too.
Beat the chill this winter with funding and support
If you’re worried about your bills, or if your home is cold and difficult to heat, we can help you access funding and support to improve things.
You can use our handy Funding Finder tool or find about grants and loans. The only way to apply for these schemes is to contact us directly either by phone or online – one of our advisors will be happy to help.
We're here to help
Four steps you can take, and links to more information from the Energy Saving Trust
Improve your home insulation
From floor to loft, there are plenty of cost effective ways to insulate your home and keep it feeling warm, while reducing your heating bills.
Upgrade your heating system
An efficient heating system can make a big difference to warmth and comfort at home, as well as lowering energy bills.
Draught proofing and glazing
Draught-proofing is one of the cheapest and most effective ways to save energy and make your home warmer.
Understand your heating controls
The right heating controls will let you keep your home at a comfortable temperature without wasting fuel or heat.
A warm home can make you happier and healthier
A warm home can bring all sorts of benefits when it comes to health and wellbeing as well as comfort. Research by the World Health Organisation shows that living in cold properties can lead to ill health, from joint pain and respiratory problems to mental health issues.
Warm homes help keep people healthy, and at Home Energy Scotland we believe everyone has the right to live in a property that’s warm and comfortable.
Do you support someone who's living in a cold property? Read more here.