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Winter is coming and with it, its share of energy bills that make us grind our teeth. In France, heating represents on average 65% of a household's energy expenditure. Good news, a few simple actions can significantly reduce this consumption. Overview of the most effective techniques to lower the bill.
Insulate your windows to say goodbye to heat loss
First reflex to adopt: track down air leaks. Poorly insulated windows can be responsible for up to 30% of heat loss in a home. Check the condition of the seals around windows and doors. For less than €20, these adhesive strips create an effective barrier against drafts. Also consider thick curtains which, when closed at night, provide additional thermal protection.
Adjust your thermostat like a pro
The ideal temperature varies depending on the room. For the bedroom, 17°C is enough to get a good night's sleep. The living room can be kept at 19°C during active times. Each degree less represents approximately 7% savings on your bill. Invest in a programmable thermostat: it will automatically adjust the temperature according to your schedule and habits.
Maintain your radiators to optimize their performance
A dirty radiator consumes up to 50% more energy. Dust your appliances regularly and purge them once a year, ideally before the cold season. Don't forget to clear the space around the radiators: furniture or curtains placed in front of them block the diffusion of heat.
Adopt intelligent ventilation
Ventilate, yes, but not just any old way! Open your windows wide for 10 minutes a day, preferably during the hottest hours. This technique allows you to renew the air efficiently without cooling the walls too much. Healthy, dry air heats up more easily than humid air, so you will consume less energy.
Equip yourself with connected solutions
© Unsplash/Dan Lefebvre
New technologies offer interesting solutions. Connected thermostatic valves allow precise control of the temperature room by room. Via a mobile application, you can program scenarios adapted to your lifestyle. Some models even automatically detect open windows to turn off the heating.
Enjoy the sun for free
The sun remains the best ally for naturally heating your home. Open your shutters in the morning to let the heat in. Close them as soon as night falls to conserve this free energy. This simple habit can reduce your heating consumption by 15 to 20%.
Insulate your walls and attic
Yes, insulating your walls is particularly expensive. But it is one of the most effective and sustainable ways to save energy. If you are a homeowner with a low income, there is a good chance that you will be eligible for government aid with the MaPrimeRénov program. This will allow you to start work to improve the insulation of your home, and thus make significant energy savings.
Think about alternative solutions
Supplement your main system with additional solutions. A wood stove in the living room can cover a large part of your heating needs. Air-to-air heat pumps also offer excellent long-term efficiency-price ratio. Even a simple blanket on the couch can help you turn down the heat without sacrificing comfort!
By following these tips, you can expect to reduce your heating bill by 30 to 40%. The initial investment, often modest, is quickly profitable through the savings made. Don't forget government aid: MaPrimeRénov and energy saving certificates can finance part of your thermal improvement work.
The most important thing is to adopt these actions on a daily basis. By changing a few habits and making targeted investments, you will gain in comfort while significantly reducing your environmental impact. A double benefit that is well worth the effort.
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