The average household energy bill is set to increase by £149 a year , due to Ofgem's price hike. The regulator has raised the cap from the current £1,568 for a typical dual fuel household in England, Scotland and Wales to £1,717, which is about £12 a month more on average. So, how can we stay warm and cosy at home during the cooler months without turning the central heating up? Here are a few suggestions.
"Warm feet play a major role in contributing towards your body temperature and blood flow, therefore need to be looked after," explains Stephen Hankinson, energy efficiency expert at Electric Radiators Direct. "Layering up with thick and fluffy socks is an obvious yet great choice to keep your feet warm. "Slippers work perfectly for wearing around the house as they not only add another layer of insulation, but they also provide better foot support and stop any potential slips happening on laminate or tiled flooring.
" He also suggests foot baths. "Consider soaking your feet in a warm foot bath, as this will help increase circulation and keep your feet warmer for longer. But make sure you properly dry your feet after, as lingering moisture will likely lead to colder feet," adds Hankinson.
Wearing warm clothes is not only important for comfort, but also for maintaining proper bodily functions. "For those who struggle with dry skin conditions, the harsh winter weather may worsen this, therefore it is important to keep moisture locked in by wearing layers in cold temperatures.