Experts at energy company Fuse say that placing furniture close to radiators often causes the radiators to heat poorly and prevents the heat from circulating around the room.
Furniture creates a barrier and increases costs
Fuse note that large pieces of furniture — sofas, beds, wardrobes and armchairs — trap heat and impede its circulation around the room. This forces the heating system to run longer and harder to reach the required temperature.
“This forces your heating system to work harder and longer to reach the desired temperature, which leads to wasted energy and higher heating bills,” Fuse added. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can also damage upholstery, and poor air circulation promotes moisture accumulation and mould growth.
Recommended distance from radiators and the role of curtains
For optimal heat circulation they recommend leaving at least 30 cm between furniture and radiators. In these conditions warm air rises and is distributed more evenly throughout the room.
Fuse emphasise that curtains should not cover radiators, as this directs heat towards the window instead of warming the room. Even a small increase in the space around radiators can speed up and improve heating.
Additional heating precautions
The article also mentions safety warnings: avoid using a gas hob or oven for heating because of the risk of carbon monoxide; use candles only on stable surfaces and under supervision; and do not place hot-water bottles on bare skin — wrap them in fabric to prevent burns.
Earlier Finance.ua compiled practical tips on the cheapest ways to insulate that will help retain heat and reduce costs — How to cheaply insulate a room and keep the heat.
