If you’re a student, you’re probably used to finding ways to save a few pennies here and there. But what about when it comes to your home?
One of the biggest challenges we’re all facing right now is keeping our energy bills down, especially over the winter. So, we’ve pulled together this handy guide to help you save money while staying comfortable and keeping your student house in tip-top condition.
Here are our top tips for student living in the colder months:
Only heat rooms that are occupied
Switching off the radiators in any empty bedrooms, or areas that are only used for short periods of time, like hallways, will lower your bills.
You can also use draught excluders by the doors of unused rooms to keep the heat where you need it. Don’t forget to pop them in front of your external doors, too!
Only put the heating on when you need it
According to the Energy Saving Trust, the idea that leaving your heating on low all day is cheaper is a myth. In fact, it’s better to only pop the heating on when you need it.
Use excess heat after cooking
In a student flat, it’s unlikely there are children or pets around, so it’s safe to leave your oven open after cooking. As the hot air is released, it will help heat your kitchen.
Open your curtains – and close them at night
Up to 20% of heat in homes is lost through windows, so it’s important to keep your curtains closed at night to keep draughts at bay. You’ll want to keep them open in the daytime, though – sunlight can help warm the rooms in student houses.
Don’t put laundry on radiators
You might think that hanging your wet clothes on radiators will save running the tumble dryer, but if your radiators are drying your laundry, they’re not heating your home. When it comes to student flats, where drying clothes outside isn’t an option, pop them on an airer instead.
Keep mould at bay
Keeping your house ventilated will keep mould at bay. However, in the winter, the last thing you want to do is open a window. Thankfully, there are ways around it. If there are vents in your student house, keep them clear of furniture and belongings. Plus, if your student housing has an extractor fan, make sure you switch it on regularly.
Unplug high-energy appliances
Some appliances, like chargers, laptops and kettles drain energy if left switched on – even when you’re not using them. So, when you’re done with these, make sure you flick the switch off.
Wrap up warm
Last but not least – wrap up warm to take the chill off. Whether it’s adding an extra layer of clothing, wrapping up in a blanket, or taking a hot water bottle to bed with you, it’ll help keep you comfortable without the need to turn up the thermostat.
The bottom line
If you want to find out more about how you can keep your student accommodation cosy in winter, have a read of these handy guides from the Energy Saving Trust and Money Saving Expert.
And, if you’re a student at Sheffield University or Sheffield Hallam University, check out other articles from our blog for insider tips on everything from nightlife to accommodation.
