5 ways to keep your uni house warm this winter

Winter is officially here and, with it, the cold weather. Unfortunately, it's not just outside that gets chilly. Your student house can quickly become uncomfortably cold. With rising energy prices, running the heating all day can cost a fortune. To help, we've put together some tips that can help you stay cosy in your student house throughout the winter months. 

1. Wear extra layers

It might seem simple (and like something your parents would say), but throwing on an extra jumper or dressing gown can make a big difference when it starts getting colder. A pair of fuzzy socks and some slippers can help you get cosy. Or, why not invest in an Oodie - a TikTok viral wearable blanket that really helps you stay warm!

2. Block out draughts 

You can help rooms retain heat by keeping your doors and windows closed so draughts can't enter. In the daytime, make sure you open your curtains or blinds to let the light in. But close them when dusk falls to help block out the cold. 

If you notice any severe draughts (which can be common in older houses), make sure you speak to your property manager. It's their responsibility to sort these out.

3. Electric blankets and hot water bottles 

Don't underestimate the power of a hot water bottle or an electric blanket. Both options are far cheaper and more energy efficient than switching your heating on - and you can take them with you as you move around your house! You can also pop them underneath your duvet for a while before you go to sleep, so you've got a cosy bed waiting for you every night. 

4. Make sure you're using radiators right 

Your radiators are releasing heat into your home so it's essential that you're using them correctly. If you have furniture in front of your radiators, the heat will be absorbed and won't circulate around the rest of the room. It can even be a fire risk in some cases - so make sure you aren't blocking them with anything. 

If your radiators aren't heating up properly, you might need to bleed them. For this, you'll need a radiator valve key. If you don't have one, your property manager or landlord should be able to supply you with one. 

Bleeding your radiators is the process of removing trapped air in the system. When your heating is turned off, place a tea towel or receptacle under the valve and use the radiator key to turn it. You should hear the sound of air escaping from the radiator. When water comes out, close the valve by turning the key back the other way. Once you switch your heating back on, you should be good to go. 

If your radiator still isn't heating up once you've bled it, contact your property manager. You may have an issue with your boiler or central heating system which they can help you sort out. 

5. Put your heating on a timer or use a thermostat

It's probably not realistic to make it through the whole of winter without ever turning your heating on. After all, you don't want to freeze! Using the timer on your boiler will help you limit your heating usage to certain periods when you most need it. For instance, you could have it come on in the evenings or just before you and your housemates plan to get up in the morning. Putting your heating on for just a few hours in the day will help to maintain a warmer temperature in your home.

If you have a thermostat in your student house, you can use it to ensure that the temperature inside never drops too low. Just set a base temperature, and your heating will kick on if it ever gets colder. But be careful not to set your base temperature too high, or your heating will come on too frequently, and you'll end up spending more than you planned to.

Why not explore a bills-included option?

If you rent a property with bills already included, you won't have to worry so much about keeping your heating costs down. Take a look at the many student properties we have listed on StuRents.com with bills included in the rental price.