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Close curtains and shutters at night, keep radiators uncovered

Closing curtains and roller shutters at night cuts heat loss through windows by 30 to 50%; curtains and furniture in front of radiators block the heat.

Do it yourself

Sources checked on .

HeatingLevel 1 · HabitCost: FreeA few minutesat least 30% less heat lost through windows

Close curtains and shutters when it gets dark. Curtains should not hang over or just above a radiator, or you end up heating the window instead of the room. Keep sofas and cupboards away from the front of radiators too.

Details

ImpactNot rated · The cited sources don't give a size for this saving, so we don't guess. How we rate impact
Estimated savingat least 30% less heat lost through windows · Lower end of 30–50% less heat loss through windows at night, highest with single glazing in cold weather (Leefmilieu Brussel). (confidence: medium)
Who actsYou (tenant)
Needs landlord's agreementNo
TypeAction
Constant or subject to changeConstant · Good practice that barely changes with new laws, prices or services.

Sources

  1. 100 tips om energie te besparen (in Dutch) · Leefmilieu Brussel (official source) · checked on
    Backs: 30–50% less window heat loss; curtains not over radiators
    Where: p. 10 tip 5; p. 12 tip 11

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