As energy costs continue to rise, households nationwide are seeking ways to keep their homes cosy without resorting to costly heating systems. While modern insulation and central heating can effectively warm a house, they can be quite expensive, prompting many to explore alternative solutions.
An age-old trick from the Victorian era could be the perfect solution for warming your home without needing to turn on the heating. This method, as effective today as it was over a century ago, was a common feature in Victorian households before central heating became commonplace, according to My Home Improvements, a leading expert in home upgrades and energy efficiency.
Victorian homes were known for being draughty, and to counter this without wasting precious coal, homeowners would use a combination of heavy curtains, door drapes, and 'pelmets' to trap warm air inside.
The key components of this forgotten trick include thick, floor-length curtains with pelmets - also known as valances - on top. These should be installed not only at windows but also next to doors leading to colder rooms.
The final element is to use draught excluders at doors. The experts recommend fabric 'sausage dog' excluders or thick door drapes, both of which were common features in many Victorian homes, reports the Express.
A spokesperson for My Home Improvements recently highlighted the often overlooked heat loss through windows and doorways, noting how Victorian techniques remain effective today. "Many homeowners underestimate just how much heat escapes through windows and doorways. The Victorians didn't have central heating, yet they managed to keep their homes warm with these simple, effective methods."
They added, "Heavy curtains, door drapes, and pelmets might seem old-fashioned, but they're an incredibly efficient way to reduce heat loss and keep your home cosy-without increasing your energy bills."
Modern-day households can adopt this Victorian-era strategy to retain warmth and cut down on heating expenses. By reintroducing these time-honoured practices, you can keep your home snug while keeping a lid on those escalating energy bills.
