Students are constantly searching for the best heating alternatives to radiators. Using your heating can be expensive, but we’ve put this article together to push you in the right direction.
Why Seek Out Alternative Heat Sources
Many students are hesitant to have their radiators on. Firstly, by using alternative options, you can save yourself some money. Having your heating on all the time isn’t cheap! Secondly, both electric and gas use carbon emissions. If you use alternative heat sources for your home, you’ll be helping the environment too.
Saving on Gas and Electricity
There’re many ways to save on your gas and electricity like having shorter showers and unplugging appliances which aren’t in use. Not having your heating on 24/7 is another way to do this. Around half of a household’s energy bill is typically spent on heating and hot water. By using alternative sources for warmth, you may notice your energy bill become less expensive.
Alternative Heating Options:
Thicker and Heated Blankets
Electric blankets are designed to be used for short periods of time and are cheaper than using your heating. Electric blankets are usually put under your covers and will warm your bed when plugged in. This can be done before you go to sleep so you can get into a warm bed. Once your bed is heated up, you can turn the blanket off before settling down for the night.
Thick blankets and duvets are perfect insulators as well. They trap your body heat to keep you feeling cosy as you sleep. Fluffy bedding is particularly good for insulation. It’s soft as well which is a great plus side. Fill your bed with fluffy blankets so you can stay warm all night. If you do have blankets, you can wrap them around yourself as you walk around the house if the air is cold.
Hot Water Bottles
Hot water bottles can be used everywhere because they’re easy to carry around. You can even bring them to lectures with you! Having one by your side as you sleep will quickly warm you up. Your bedding should trap the heat from the hot water bottle inside and keep you cosy. There’re many designs to choose from, and some are super fluffy. If you have any aches, pains or cramps, they’re great for this too.
Leave the Oven Door Open After Cooking
After you turn your oven off, it’ll stay warm for a while. As it’s cooling down, leave the oven door open. This will disperse heat into the air and act as a heater until it’s cooled down completely. When your oven is turned on, never use it as a heater. Doing so can create a fire hazard and damage nearby items.
Stay Active
When it’s cold outside, the thought of being active can be unmotivating. Crawling into bed and putting on your favourite series can sound more appealing. However, during exercise, your muscles will generate lots of heat which warms your blood. At the same time, being active is great for your health. Going on a walk in nature can also improve your mental health and reduce stress. This is ideal if you’re worrying about an assignment and need to get in the right headspace to complete it. You can be active inside too! There’re plenty of at home workouts to discover on YouTube.
Group Up – Spend Time with Friends
You don’t have to be active alone, you can do so with others. Go on a run or a walk with friends in nature. This will be a great stress reliever for all of you. Exercising can also include an activity. You might walk around an art gallery or a Christmas market. If you’re moving around, you’re keeping warm.
As well as spending time out and about, you can also keep warm by relaxing together. If you sit in the living room with your housemates, you’ll quickly find yourself feeling warm. This is because of everyone’s body heat. Have a movie night with blankets and popcorn, and you can all stay cosy and warm.
More Top Tips From The Student Energy Group
At The Student Energy Group, we’ll combine all your bills into one monthly student bills package. This includes electric, gas, water, internet and TV licence. You can then split this between you and everyone you live with. We’re dedicated to helping you save money and making your life easier! If you sign up with us, we’ll plant a tree. Get a free quote from us today, it’ll take you less than two minutes.
