One heating expert advised homeowners to let in daylight when the sun is out as using natural light is more cost effective in the long run over the colder months
As winter’s icy grip tightens and the sun becomes a rare sight, we’re all seeking solace in the cosy warmth of our homes.
November heralds the true onset of the chilly season, shifting our attention to staying warm without racking up massive heating bills. While it might be tempting to draw your curtains to keep your rooms toasty, experts suggest this might not be the most effective tactic.
Heating gurus recommend letting in daylight while the sun is shining, arguing that utilising natural light can naturally boost the temperature inside our homes. Windows essentially function as a greenhouse, trapping even the weak winter sunlight to bolster indoor heating.
However, when night falls, shutting the curtains proves beneficial to ward off the biting evening chill. One expert advised: “When it is below freezing outside, it is generally better to keep the curtains open during the day to allow sunlight to enter the home and help warm the interior.
“Allowing the sunshine to come in can help offset some of the heat loss through the windows,” reports Manchester Evening News. Curtain retailer, The Mill Shop, has offered some guidance on managing curtains with the fluctuating light: “Closing the curtains would prevent that solar heat gain.
“However, it’s also important to ensure the windows are well-insulated to minimise heat transfer through the glass. The best strategy for keeping your house toasty hinges on several elements, such as how well your home is insulated, the amount of sunshine it gets, and just how nippy it is outside.”
They also recommend: “Keep curtains open during sunny spells in the daytime to make the most of natural light and heat. Closing the curtains would prevent that solar heat gain. However, it’s also important to ensure the windows are well-insulated to minimise heat transfer through the glass.
“The optimal approach depends on factors like the home’s insulation, the amount of sunlight, and the severity of the cold temperatures outside. They further advise: “Close curtains when it’s cold and dull, particularly at night, to reduce losing heat via windows and doors. Choose an insulating curtain for best results, or a lined curtain. You could even line existing curtains to increase their insulating properties.”
