From thermal detectors to insulating window film – here are some simple tips for a more energy-efficient winter.
Look for the “energy thieves”
- Use energy meters and smart plugs
"You can connect your electrical devices to plugs that keep track of the energy consumption. This way you can see which devices use the most energy. There are also smart plugs that allows you to switch your devices on and off remotely", says Krister Beck, Category & Mission Manager at Fix & Home.
Examples of products:
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Plug-in Energy Meter: 36-8705
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Smart Plug, Deltaco: 36-9260
- Replace halogen bulbs with LED
"One thing many people still overlook is replacing halogen spotlights with LEDs, these are often left in. A LED bulb uses much less power than a halogen bulb of the same brightness. The ratio will vary, but in general a change will make big difference —for example when replacing a 35-watt halogen bulb with a 5-watt LED," Krister says.
Check and secure your home for heat loss
- Use a thermal detector
"A thermal detector can be very useful to find out where heat is escaping. It helps locate cold areas and potential thermal bridges, making it easier to take action where it’s needed most," says Magnus Eriksson, Product Manager.
Examples of products:
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Thermal detector, Bosch: 36-5316
- Replace the sealing strips around the windows
Windows are a common source of heat loss. If you feel any cold areas around the window, it would be a good idea to replace your sealings strips. This reduces draft and helps lower the heating costs:
"Sealing strips last a long time but they should be replaced regularly to ensure a good seal. If you're unsure about the gap size around windows and doors, there are flexible strips that adapt to different widths," says Erik Sundqvist, Product Manager.
Examples of products:
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Sealing Strip P-Profile: 34-236
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Sealing Strip, Omega-profile, 1-7 mm, Stokvis: 41-1013-1
- Apply insulating window film
"Applying a film to the window creates an extra layer of insulation, almost like adding another windowpane, if you don’t have triple glazing," Erik explains.
Examples of products:
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Insulating Window Film, Tesamoll: 34-3040
Optimise your radiators
- Connect radiators to a thermostat
"Plug-in radiators can be made more energy-efficient by connecting them to a thermostat that plugs into the wall socket. Some thermostats can even be controlled via an app, allowing you to adjust the temperature remotely," says Magnus.
Examples of products:
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Plug in Thermostat: 36-9325
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Smart Plug Thermostat, Mill: 36-25
- Place heat-reflecting insulation behind the radiator
"You can also place heat-reflective insulation foil behind the radiator. This helps direct more heat into the room instead of being absorbed by the wall. The foil can also be used to insulate for example garage doors," Erik adds.
Examples of products:
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Energy Saving Insulation, Mottez: 41-4289
