Winter tips

Winter tips from residents

I have an electric blanket on my bed.  They are very economical, from 1p to 3p an hour. Unlike the blankets of old you can get in the bed while the blanket is switched on, they now have timers so if you go to sleep with the blanket on it can be set to switch off automatically. Blankets can also be washed in the washing machine in the spring and put away for next winter.

The shops sell sort of onesies without legs, not sure what they are called but they certainly keep the wearer warm. They are made of a synthetic fleece and come in different patterns, men, women and children. I wore mine in the cold spell and had to turn the heating down…..must admit I look a banana but who cares as long as I am warm.

People should also watch when items are posted through the letter box. Ensure the letter box closes correctly or a terrific, cold wind will make the home very cold. Have a word with delivery operatives and encourage them to push papers right through.

Keeping Condensation Away:

Condensation is a process in which the moisture content of warm air settles on a cold surface. Windows are typically colder than the air in a room and therefore it is the most noticeable place for condensation.

• Open the windows to allow air to circulate more freely
• Use extractor fans while cooking, bathing or open windows to allow moist air to escape.
• Try to avoid drying clothes inside on radiators.
• Use lids for your kitchen utensils like pans when cooking.
• Always try to keep your kitchen and bathroom doors closed (if it is an open kitchen use the extractor fan while cooking)
• Using ‘window absorbent sticker’ which is available in online to purchase. It is also called as ‘condensation drip strip’.
• Move furniture away from external walls.
• Rub a tiny drop of washing up liquid vigorously on to the glass but make sure it should be like a smear not cloudy.
• Have enough heating whenever needed.
• Do not over dump any clothes or any things in the wardrobe or cupboard, give some space for the ventilation (also to avoid a musty smell).
• Try to wipe away the moisture on the windows or any surfaces as soon as you notice it- The excess moisture in the air settle on the surface and turn into mould if kept untreated.
• A magnetic secondary glazing kit: It doesn’t eliminate condensation but helps to reduce the worst visible effects of condensation.
• Dehumidifier- These are appliances which reduces the moisture in the air and maintains the humidity levels.
• It is being suggested if the dehumidifier is not affordable make the own dehumidifier by putting a cat litter or salt or sugar in a big plastic tub to absorb the moisture.
• Put some salt in a bowl and keep that bowl on the windowsill which will draw the damp to it.

When trying to remove condensation/ mould from windows or walls it is being suggested that to wipe the surfaces with water, soap and a rag also wear gloves and mask to protect from mould spores causing infections. Carrying out this process daily is very important to remove the condensation that’s starting to build.

Saving Money:

• Plan a budget.
• Check your utility providers and compare them to select the best one.
• Pre plan your spending at the supermarkets and store food properly.
• Cut you fuel costs by looking at the best prices in the area.
• Use water carefully without wasting it to reduce the water bill.
• Cancel unnecessary subscriptions.
• Search for discounts or buy during the sale.
• Get help from someone like your bank or other parties to help managing your budget if you are struggling to cope up with the money.

Saving Energy:

• Turn off lights when it’s not necessary.
• Turn on light or heating only in the room that you are using the most.
• Don’t keep the electric appliances on the standby mode.
• Make sure the windows and doors are draught proof.
• Plan your washing effectively.
• Set your thermostat effectively.
• Spend less time in the shower.
• Don’t over fill the kettle, only heat the required amount of water.
• Use a ‘thermos’ flask or any affordable and efficient flask to keep your water hot for many hours to avoid heating the water repeatedly.
• Wear thick and full clothes to avoid using heating for a long time.

Keeping Warm:

• Use heating whenever necessary and try to use it effectively.
• Use thick clothes or cosy clothes or many layers of clothes or hooded blanket to avoid using heating for a long time.
• Use thermal wares to stay warmer.
• Have a hot cup of tea or herbal tea or coffee or soup or anything keeps you warm.
• Hot water bottles are inexpensive ways to stay warmer.
• Leave the oven open for a while after baking.
• Make use of the hot water while washing- Washing the kitchen utensils in hot water keeps your fingers and hands warm.
• Wear thick, cosy socks or slippers.
• Do exercise.