How to keep yourself warm when you’re on a budget?

Sub-zero temperatures are rising in Britain and gas and electricity prices have soared for millions of homes.

about energy bills 50% more than pre-Covid levelLeaving many people struggling to cover the costs along with other financial demands.

So what can you do to stay warm while keeping costs down?

Staying warm during the winter months can help prevent colds, flu, and serious health problems like heart attacks, strokes, pneumonia, and depression. according to nhs,

Pensioners, children under five, people with health problems and those who are pregnant are most at risk.

So, stay Safety and health should be given priorityEven if it puts a strain on finances. This extends to checking that gas appliances are safe to use when they may be switched on rarely.

Family, friends and neighbors can play their part by making sure anyone who is more vulnerable takes precautions when going out on icy sidewalks. There was a good stock of food and medicines in the house,

Many charities and councils run hot center In places like libraries, those who are short on money have somewhere to go – but it is important to exercise caution when walking in these places in snowy or icy weather.

Before there’s an argument between family or flatmates over heating, try taking a tour of the property to find out ways to save energy.

may include Turning off radiators in unused roomsswitching lights off when they are not needed, and Do not leave electrical appliances on standby,

there should be curtains Open during the day, then pulled in the evening,

Manage your drafts by placing a black bag with paper over an unused chimney, or try limiting other drafts around the house. you can easily Make your own draft excluderMay have cold, hard floors covered with a carpet if you have one.

Dress up safely, use a hot water bottle and make sure you have warm sleepwear.

When it comes to heating, there is a lot of debate over whether it is more efficient to keep it on low permanently rather than turning it on and off when needed.

Experts don’t have a clear answer on this, as it often depends on the circumstances of the home, but it probably isn’t the best option for most people.

Generally, a room temperature between 18C and 21C is ideal for most people, but dropping it one degree can save money.

For older people and those with health problems, it is best not to let the temperature drop below 18C in rooms that are used regularly.

Making sure curtains are not placed in front of radiators This will help ensure that heat remains inside push furniture away From radiators.

Consider fitting radiator reflective panelHowever this may be a long term task.

It’s more important than ever to eat and drink well, even with less motivation, while staying at home.

Age UK says that warming foods, such as Soups and StewsAnd hot drinks like tea can help keep you warm. People should try to eat hot food at least once a day and drink hot beverages as much as possible. Supermarket-branded tins can be cheap, so keep a close eye on prices. food Bank Even if you are short of money, you can help.

Take care of yourself Do not overfill the kettle By assessing what is needed to keep costs down. batch cooking Can also help. Don’t forget fruit and vegetables – these can be cooked with the steamer on the same hob instead of using separate vegetables.

When washing, if your hot water is too hot to wash your hands, your The setting is probably too high Therefore switch off the boiler. wash clothes at 30CNot 40C.

keep going As much as possible between meals. This is likely to help your mental and physical health.

As tempting as it is to take a long soak in the shower, experts suggest limiting the time to four minutes. A playlist of four minute songs Can help.

If you are struggling financially, local councils and energy suppliers should be able to provide some support.

In fact, if you’re behind on your energy bills the supplier is obliged to help.

Any person with a prepayment meter who is not able to top up can ask for a fuel voucher From their supplier, or through their council.

Local authorities may also be able to provide help with living costs through a household support fund. You can find your local council here,

There are many other grants and benefits that people may be entitled to, but are not claiming. During an extended period of sub-zero temperatures, cold weather payment Will be made.

Making a claim may not provide immediate improvement during the current cold, but may help through the rest of the winter. Citizens’ advice should help to find out whether a claim can be made,

Grants are available for long-term tasks ranging from insulation to upgrading heating systems, but time should be taken to research such tasks and applicants should be alert to scams.