Winter energy saving tips

Winter Energy Saving Tips

As the temperature drops, energy use climbs - and so do bills. Heating your home through the colder months can be costly, but a few small changes can make a big difference.

We’ve pulled together practical ways to save energy at home this winter while keeping warm and comfortable. And because things don’t always go to plan, 1st Central is here to help protect your home, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

 Find out how home insurance can keep you covered this winter. 

The Facts About Winter Energy Use

Here’s what the experts say about how we use energy in winter:

• Around 60% of household energy use goes on heating.
• Turning your thermostat down by just 1°C can cut heating bills by up to 10%.
• The average UK household spends about 70% more on energy in winter months than in summer.
• A well-insulated home can save up to £500 per year on heating bills compared with a poorly insulated one.
• The average home loses around 25% of its heat through the roof if not insulated properly.

These figures show that small adjustments can have a real impact on both comfort and cost.

Heating & Insulation: Keep the Warmth In

Keeping heat inside your home is one of the easiest ways to save energy.

• Bleed your radiators to remove trapped air and keep them running efficiently.
• Lower the thermostat by one degree. It’ll feel the same but use less energy.
• Seal draughts around doors, windows, and letterboxes.
• Add insulation to your loft and pipes to lock in warmth.
• Close curtains at night to prevent heat loss.
• Try a smart thermostat to control heating room-by-room.

If you have a heating or electrical emergency, Home Emergency Cover is there when you need it. It offers round-the-clock help for issues like emergency boiler breakdowns, plumbing leaks, and unexpected power outages.

Appliances & Habits: Small Changes, Big Savings

How you use your home every day affects energy use too.

• Run washing machines and dishwashers on eco mode or only when full.
• Switch off devices completely rather than leaving them on standby.
• Use LED bulbs. They use up to 80% less energy and last longer.
• Cook efficiently - batch-cook meals or use a slow cooker.
• Set fridge and freezer temperatures to around 5°C and −18°C.

These easy habits lower bills, protect your appliances, and help your home run smoothly.

Personal Comfort: Stay Warm Without Wasting Energy

You can stay cosy without cranking up the heating.

• Layer clothes instead of turning up the thermostat.
• Use hot-water bottles or heated blankets for focused warmth.
• Keep doors closed to retain heat in rooms you use most.
• Add rugs to help insulate cold floors.
• Avoid unsafe heaters or open flames.

While home insurance can cover fire or accidental damage, prevention is always the best protection.

Make sure your home and contents are protected this winter.

Why Winter Preparedness Includes Home Insurance

Even with good preparation, winter can be tough on homes. Burst pipes, leaks, and storm damage are common - and costly.

That’s why 1st Central Home Insurance matters. It covers:

• Fire, flood, and storm damage.
• Theft and attempted theft from your home.
• Accidental damage (for standard and premier policies)

Full accidental damage can be included in your cover at purchase or renewal.

Good maintenance helps prevent problems, but insurance gives peace of mind when the unexpected happens. In addition, our Home Emergency Cover will cover you for heating, plumbing, or power emergencies.

Get a home insurance quote.

Save Energy, Stay Protected

Simple actions make a big difference - from lowering your thermostat to checking your insulation. Combine that with the right cover, and you’ll be ready for whatever winter brings.

At 1st Central, we make home insurance straightforward, so you can stay warm, save money, and relax knowing you’re covered all year round.

Get a quote now.