We all love a good money-saving trick, especially when it comes to our household bills. With the rising costs of electricity and gas, any tip that promises to cut down on our expenses is worth considering. So, when we came across the suggestion of placing tinfoil behind our radiators for added heat, we were intrigued. Could this simple hack really help us save on our heating bills? We decided to dig deeper and consulted experts to find out the truth.
The theory behind this trick is that by placing tinfoil behind your radiators, the heat that would normally be absorbed by the wall is instead reflected back into the room, maximizing its impact. But is there any truth to this claim? We reached out to Myles Robinson, former boiler company owner and current CEO of UK Composite Doors, and Christine Matthews from heating company Gr8Fires, to get their expert opinions.
Both experts agree that the theory behind this trick is sound, but the type of foil you use is crucial. “Using reflector foil and not tinfoil behind your radiator can have a small impact in keeping your home warm,” Christine told HuffPost UK. Myles also recommends using purpose-made radiator reflector panels instead of regular kitchen foil. “The panels are thicker and designed to trap less heat themselves, making them more effective. Plus, they’re sturdier and easier to clean if dust builds up,” he explains.
However, both experts also caution that the impact of this trick is not significant. “The heat generated from this method is generally quite small,” says Christine. Myles adds, “It’s more of a small win than a game-changer.” So, while this hack may help in keeping your home a bit warmer, don’t expect a drastic decrease in your monthly heating costs.
But don’t let that discourage you from giving it a try. If your radiators are against external walls, this trick may make a noticeable difference, especially in older homes with poor insulation. “It’s worth giving it a go,” says Myles, “but don’t expect a significant impact on your bills.”
Of course, there are other ways to lower your heating bill that may have a more significant impact. “Tackling the problem at its source can be a game-changer,” says Christine. “A better approach is to focus on insulating your home, draught-proofing, and investing in a more efficient heating system.” While these solutions may require a larger investment, they can lead to long-term savings on your heating bills.
But if you’re looking for a quick and low-cost fix, the tinfoil trick may be worth a shot. “It won’t make the biggest difference in your bills,” clarifies Myles, “but it’s like giving your radiator a little bit of backup in the battle against winter!”
So, what about the other heating hacks that promise to save us money? Are they worth trying? According to our experts, it’s always best to tackle the problem at its source. “Investing in proper insulation and an efficient heating system will have a more significant impact on your bills,” says Christine. Myles agrees, “While these hacks may have a small benefit, they won’t make a significant difference in your overall expenses.”
But if you’re still curious about other heating hacks, our experts have some advice. “Always do your research and make sure the hack is safe and won’t cause any damage to your home or appliances,” says Christine. Myles adds, “And remember, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.”
In conclusion, while the tinfoil trick may not be a game-changer, it’s a quick and easy fix that won’t do any harm. “It’s worth trying,” says Myles, “and who knows, it may just give your radiator a little extra boost in the fight against the cold.” So, go ahead and give it a go, but don’t expect a significant decrease in your heating bills. Instead, focus on long-term solutions like proper insulation and an efficient heating system for more significant savings. Stay warm and stay smart!
