‘Hidden’ culprits are keeping your house cold even with the heating on - what to look for

‘Hidden’ culprits are keeping your house cold even with the heating on - what to look for (Image: Getty)

Interior expert Chloe Barrow from Laura James has shared four home mistakes that keep your house cold even with the heating on, making bills “skyrocket” unnecessarily.

The expert said: “One hidden culprit is poorly insulated floorboards. We always remember to check doors and windows but floorboards are so often forgotten.

“Even a small draft can counteract the effect of central heating, making your home feel colder than it should.

“To test for drafts, run a hand along gaps in your wooden floorboards. If you notice a chill, applying draught-proofing tape or sealant can be an inexpensive fix.

“For larger gaps in floorboards, consider using a floor filler or draught excluder to prevent cold air from seeping in.”

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A “common mistake” is furniture or curtains positioned too close to radiators, which might seem practical, but it isn’t.

Furniture can absorb a significant amount of warmth which could otherwise circulate the room, and the same goes for curtains too.

Instead, rearrange furniture to leave a few inches between the radiator and nearby items, allowing heat to flow.

If you’re using heavy curtains to keep out the drafts, make sure they’re not draped directly over radiators, they should end just above.

Although this isn’t necessarily the in-style way to have draping curtains, it can improve your home’s warmth significantly.

The expert added: “Every year when the heating goes on you need to be revisiting your thermostat settings.

“This is a time many of us in the home and interior industry know about, but it’s so often forgotten or not considered by the general public.

“Make sure to set a consistent, moderate temperature rather than constantly adjusting. A smart thermostat can offer more precise control, helping you maintain a comfortable temperature without using excessive energy.”

In older homes, insulation can be inconsistent, leading to heat escaping through poorly insulated walls or loft spaces.

Even with the heating on, a home can lose up to 35 percent of its warmth through poorly insulated areas.

If you think this is the main culprit for a consistent chill, the expert recommended consulting a specialist to assess your home’s insulation needs.

Chloe noted: “If budget is a concern, many homeowners in the UK are eligible for grants or subsidies that make adding insulation more affordable.

“This is one of the best long-term investments you can make for a warm, energy-efficient home, so if you can afford it or think you’ll be successful in a grant application, I would hugely recommend going for it.”