As the temperatures around the UK have plummeted experts have been coming forward to guide Britons through how to maximise their in-home heating

09:38, Fri, Dec 5, 2025 Updated: 09:59, Fri, Dec 5, 2025

Central heating problem at home. Woman checking heating radiator in cold apartment

An insulation expert has provided some guidance on how to maximise the heating in your home (stock) (Image: Getty)

An insulation expert has suggested that homeowners could be missing out on maximising their home’s efficiency by making one simple mistake.

This winter, millions of people around the UK have been putting on their heating as temperatures plummet to single figures.

However, while having good insulation is key to keeping heat inside the house, it is also essential to make sure the layout of each room works to a property’s benefit.

This includes, suggests SuperFOIL’s Chad Bragg, the position of furniture in relation to radiators. Mr Bragg said that in order to maximise the circulation of hot air around a flat or house, furniture needs to be at least 30cm (11.81 inches) away from a radiator.

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Smiling woman looking at the window while reclining on a couch with a yorkie.

The expert recommended keeping furniture at least 30cm from radiators (stock) (Image: Getty)

Mr Bragg suggested this was due to airflow around the room and understanding how hot air moves from place to place within a property.

He said: “Many don’t realise how important proper airflow is to your radiators’ energy efficiency. Or how much extra energy radiators end up wasting when they’re being blocked by pieces of furniture placed just a little too close.

“It’s reported that poor positioning can lead to a 25% loss in heating efficiency. That’s an enormous amount of wasted heat, and it’s exactly why it’s vital to make sure your radiators have some breathing room before you put the heating on.”

As well as recommending keeping furniture at least 30cm away from the wall, Mr Bragg also suggests making sure all radiatorsare bled so they can run at their most efficient.

He said: "Over time, radiators can trap pockets of air, which stops hot water from flowing properly and forces the heating system to spend more energy for the same results. Releasing the air once a year helps to keep everything running efficiently.

“It’s a simple task that only needs a radiator key and can easily be done at home. But, simple or not, doing this can help reduce running costs and keep the home’s heating in good condition.”

However, Mr Bragg isn’t the only individual to have suggested ways of improving the efficiency of one’s home.

Energy efficiency expert Ailsa's Jamie Burns said there were several mistakes people were making that could be costing them hundreds of pounds each year, including heating unused spaces such as spare rooms and hallways.

He added that one need not invest in major upgrades to improve heating efficiency, and that small actions could make a big difference.

Jamie explained: “With energy prices still high, every small improvement adds up. Understanding how to get the best from your heating can make your home feel warmer and your bills lighter.

"It’s not about big, expensive upgrades; it’s about being smarter with what you already have. A few thoughtful adjustments can make this winter far more comfortable without the extra cost.”