Efficient heating in winter

The energy supply is largely secured this winter as well. But energy prices remain high and VAT on natural gas is to be raised again to the standard rate earlier than planned from January 2024. It therefore still makes sense to use energy sparingly. A few simple measures help to save energy.

Especially in the cold season, regular ventilation is important to prevent mould growth. Especially in bathrooms and kitchens, cooking and showering produce a lot of moisture. This condenses on cold walls and thus promotes mould growth. The ideal is to ventilate three to four times a day for about ten minutes. Cross-ventilation, i.e. opening windows opposite each other, allows even more fresh air to flow into the room. When the windows are open, the radiator thermostats should be closed completely. Continuous ventilation with tilted windows is not recommended.

Radiator thermostats that are turned up all the way do not heat the flat faster, but regulate the desired final temperature in the room. It is more efficient to select a room temperature and keep it as constant as possible. Level 3, for example, corresponds to 20 degrees. Even a slight lowering of the room temperature can achieve considerable effects. One degree less saves about six percent energy. If you lower the room temperature from 20 degrees to 16 degrees while you are away, you reduce energy consumption by around 24 percent.

On the other hand, it is not a good idea to do without heating at all in cold temperatures. The more the flat or house cools down, the greater the risk of mould growth. Temperatures should not drop below 14 degrees. The temperature difference between colder and more heated rooms should not be more than five degrees.

Poorly vented radiators operate inefficiently. Air in the heating system can cause the radiators to remain cold. You can bleed the radiators yourself with a suitable bleed spanner from the DIY store. With the bleed spanner, carefully open the bleed valve counterclockwise to allow the air to escape. If you are not quite sure, you should seek advice from a professional beforehand.

(Graphic: © Peggy Marco, Pixabay)