UK households urged to use lighter on windows to slash energy bills

As autumn approaches, homeowners are looking for budget-friendly ways to keep their homes warm and energy-efficient.

Experts at Hiatt Hardware recommend a surprising but simple hack, using a lighter to detect draughts around windows.

This clever technique allows homeowners to identify cold air leaks quickly, allowing for effective draught-proofing measures that could lead to significant savings on energy bills while also reducing carbon emissions.

Around 30 percent of household heat is lost through draughts in doors and windows.

These leaks allow cold air to enter, causing warm air to escape, which forces heating systems to work harder.

As a result, energy bills rise, and carbon emissions increase.

Draught-proofing is a critical step for maintaining warmth and lowering costs as temperatures drop. Windows are often the biggest source of draughts.

To identify problem areas, homeowners can run their hand around the window frame or use a lighter, if the flame flickers, there’s likely a draught.

A cost-effective solution is using self-adhesive weather strips, available for as little as £2.94. These rubber-based strips prevent air from moving in and out of gaps around windows.

The strips are easy to install and can be cut to the appropriate length for any window.

However, it’s crucial to select the correct width—if too wide, the window may not close properly, if too narrow, it won’t block the draughts effectively.

For windows that are not regularly opened, using silicone sealant or applying window film can provide additional insulation.

Window film can be shrunk into place using a hairdryer, offering a quick and simple solution to reduce heat loss.

However, fresh air circulation is still important to prevent condensation and mould.

Homeowners should allow for air exchange by opening a door or window for at least 10 minutes a day.

By implementing these affordable draught-proofing tips, homeowners can retain more heat, stay comfortable throughout the colder months, and save on energy bills.