How to save on heating in a block of flats? We provide simple methods
Heating apartments in a block of flats, especially during the heating season, can significantly burden the household budget. It is worth knowing how to manage heat effectively to reduce costs and at the same time enjoy thermal comfort.
In the text we present several proven ways to save energy with central heating in apartment blocks.
Make sure your thermostats are set correctly
Radiators in blocks are usually equipped with thermostats that allow you to regulate the temperature in individual rooms. Setting them to lower values when you are away from home or at night will reduce energy consumption. It is worth remembering that the optimal temperature in the living room is about 20°C, in the bedroom – 18°C, and in the bathroom 22-24°C.
Seal windows and doors
Heat loss often results from leaky windows and doors. It is worth investing in seals that prevent the penetration of cold air from the outside. Checking and sealing windows and doors is one of the simplest and most effective methods to improve the thermal efficiency of your apartment. If possible, also consider replacing your windows with energy-saving ones.
Ventilate the apartment briefly but intensively
Ventilating the apartment is important for health, but if we do it improperly, it can lead to large heat losses. The best way is short, intensive airing – open the windows for 5-10 minutes, creating a draft. Thanks to this, fresh air will quickly circulate in the room, but the walls and furniture will not have time to cool down.
Use reflective foil behind the radiator
Installing reflective foil behind a radiator is a simple way to reduce heat loss. The foil reflects heat back into the room instead of allowing it to escape through the wall. This increases the heating efficiency and heat is better distributed around the room.
Do not cover radiators
Radiators work best when the heat spreads freely throughout the room. Covering radiators with curtains, furniture or drying clothes significantly reduces their efficiency. Leave the radiators uncovered so that the heat can evenly fill the entire apartment.
Pay attention to the insulation of the heating risers
Heating risers located in common spaces, such as staircases or corridors, may cause heat loss. If you have influence on the building management, report the need to isolate these places. This can significantly reduce the heating costs of the entire building.
Control your heat consumption with heat meters
If there are heat meters in the apartment, monitor energy consumption. Thanks to this, you will be aware of when you use the most heat and at what moments you can lower the temperature a little to save. It is also worth talking to the building administrator about more effective management of the heating system.
Use curtains and blinds
Blinds and thick curtains can have an insulating function, limiting the cooling of the room through the windows. Cover your windows in the evening to keep the heat inside. During the day, it is worth opening the windows to let the sun’s rays into the apartment, which will naturally heat the room.