Below is a list of 10 tips from heating expert Matthew Jenkins at MyJobQuote.co.uk on how to reduce your gas consumption and keep those winter energy costs in check.
Read on for everything you need to know…
1. Unleash the Power of Insulation
Let’s begin with the foundation: insulation. A well-insulated home is like a cosy cocoon, retaining the precious heat and preventing those hard-earned pounds from escaping through the roof and walls.
Below is a list of ways to insulate your home:
Loft Insulation – The humble loft is often a major culprit in heat loss. Ensure you have sufficient loft insulation. The recommended depth for most homes is around 270mm. If your loft insulation is looking a little thin or patchy, consider topping it up.
Wall Insulation – Cavity wall insulation is a fantastic way to significantly reduce heat loss through your walls. This involves injecting insulating material into the hollow spaces between the two layers of brickwork.
Draught-Proofing – Those pesky draughts can sneak in through even the smallest gaps. Conduct a thorough draught-proofing inspection around your windows and doors. Look out for gaps around the frames, letterboxes, and keyholes. Employ a variety of draught-proofing methods, such as the following: Draught Excluders, which are soft, tubular devices that can be placed under doors to prevent the cold air from seeping in. Weather Stripping is a self-adhesive tape that can be applied to window and door frames to seal gaps. Window Film is a transparent film that can be applied to single-glazed windows to reduce heat loss.
2. Master Your Heating Controls
Your thermostat is paramount in tackling high gas bills. Take a look at the tips below:
Temperature Tweaks – Lowering your thermostat temperature by even a few degrees can make a noticeable difference in your energy consumption. Aim for a comfortable temperature of around 18 – 20 degrees Celsius.
Embrace Smart Thermostats – Consider investing in a smart thermostat. These nifty devices can learn your heating habits, automatically adjust temperatures when you’re out or asleep, and can even be controlled remotely via your smartphone.
Timer Tactics – Utilise your thermostat’s timer function to schedule your heating to come on only when you need it. For example, you could set it to warm up the house an hour before you wake up and turn it down again when you leave for work.
3. Embrace The Cosy
Sometimes, the simplest solutions can be the most effective. Take a look at the tips below:
Layer Up – Ditch the t-shirts and embrace the power of layering. Put on some cosy socks and jumpers, and snuggle yourself up in a blanket. You might be surprised just how much warmer you feel without having to crank up the thermostat.
Hot Water Bottles – These are a classic for a good reason! A hot water bottle can provide comforting warmth on chilly evenings, especially when curled up on the sofa.
4. Heating Hacks
Below are some heating hacks that can help make your home warmer while saving you money on your gas bills:
Bleeding Radiators – Imagine your radiator as a water-filled pipe. If air becomes trapped inside, this prevents water from circulating properly, leading to cold spots and inefficient heating. Bleeding your radiators regularly allows you to release this trapped air, ensuring that your radiators heat up evenly and efficiently.
How to Bleed a Radiator
Take the steps below to successfully bleed your radiator:
Run your hand over the radiator and check if it is cold at the top or the bottom. If the top of the radiator is cold, this means that there is air trapped inside and that the radiator needs to be bled.
Start by turning off your central heating system.
Then, place a rag or old piece of cloth underneath the valve so that you can catch any water that may start to drip out while you are bleeding the radiator.
Use your radiator key and turn it anti-clockwise by roughly a quarter of a turn. It should start to hiss. Leave it open until the air stops coming out and water starts running out of the valve.
As soon as water starts coming out of the valve, turn the radiator key to the off position again.
Bleed any other radiators that need to be bled while your central heating system is still off.
Check your boiler pressure.
You can then turn your central heating system back on and the issue should now be resolved.
Radiator Reflectors – Radiators emit heat in all directions, including towards the wall behind them. This heat is then absorbed by the wall, effectively wasting energy. Radiator reflectors are inexpensive and easy to install. They are typically made of reflective foil and are placed behind radiators to direct the heat back into the room. This simple hack can significantly improve the energy efficiency of your radiators and make a noticeable difference in the temperature in your home.
5. Kitchen and Bathroom Tips
There are several things you can do in the kitchen and bathroom to help lower your gas bills. Take a look at the list below:
Shower Power
Embrace the “Eco” Setting – Many modern showers have an “eco” setting that reduces the water flow. Even a slight reduction in water flow can significantly lower your energy consumption.
Timing is Key – Aim for shorter showers. Every minute counts when it comes to reducing water and energy usage. Consider setting a timer to keep track of your shower times.
Install a Low-Flow Showerhead – Investing in a low-flow showerhead can significantly reduce your water usage without compromising your showering experience. These showerheads are designed to deliver a powerful spray while using less water.
Lids on Pots
Boiling Point Breakthrough – Using a lid when you are boiling water or cooking using the hob creates a much more efficient and faster cooking process. The lid helps trap the heat within the pot, allowing the water to boil much quicker, and this helps to reduce cooking times.
Energy Savings – By reducing your cooking times, you are using less energy from your hob. This not only saves you money on your gas bill, but it also helps to reduce your carbon footprint.
6. Government Schemes and Support
Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs)
An EPC is a legal requirement for most properties in England and Wales. It provides a comprehensive assessment of your home’s energy efficiency, rating it from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient).
The EPC highlights areas where your home is losing heat, such as poorly insulated walls or a draughty loft. By understanding your home’s energy performance, you can identify areas for improvement and prioritise energy-saving measures.
Government Grants and Schemes
The UK government offers various grants and schemes to help homeowners improve their home’s energy efficiency.
The Boiler Upgrade Scheme – This scheme provides financial support for homeowners and landlords to replace old gas boilers with more environmentally friendly alternatives such as heat pumps.
Energy Company Obligation (ECO) Scheme – This scheme helps low-income and vulnerable households improve their energy efficiency through certain measures such as insulation and boiler upgrades.
Local Authority Grants – Local councils may offer grants or funding for energy efficiency improvements within their area.
It is very important to research and explore the available schemes to see if you are eligible and how you can benefit from them.
7. Washing Machine and Dishwasher Efficiency
Take Advantage of Full Loads – Washing machines and dishwashers are designed to operate most efficiently when fully loaded. Running half-empty loads wastes both water and energy.
Utilise Eco Modes – Most modern washing machines and dishwashers offer an eco or energy-saving mode. These modes use less water and energy while still achieving an effective cleaning result.
Wash at Lower Temperatures – Washing your clothes at lower temperatures (30 or 40 degrees Celsius) can significantly reduce the energy consumption. Modern detergents are highly effective at lower temperatures.
Air Dry Dishes – If possible, air dry your dishes instead of using a heated dry cycle in the dishwasher.
8. Switch Suppliers
The energy market in the UK is highly competitive. Energy suppliers are constantly adjusting their tariffs to attract new customers. Regularly comparing energy tariffs from different suppliers is essential. Consider using price comparison websites and energy-switching tools to easily compare tariffs from various suppliers.
When comparing tariffs, consider your annual energy usage. Some tariffs are better suited for high-usage households, while others are more cost-effective for low-usage households.
Be aware of any exit fees associated with your current energy contract. The switching process is generally quite straightforward. Your new supplier will handle the transfer of your energy supply from your old supplier.
1. Energy-Efficient Appliances
Consider your choices of appliances and how they are affecting your gas bills. Take a look at the tips below:
High-Efficiency Boilers – Consider upgrading your old boiler to a more efficient model, such as a condensing boiler. Modern boilers are designed to extract more heat from the fuel, resulting in significant energy savings.
Regular Boiler Servicing – Regular boiler servicing ensures your boiler is operating at peak efficiency. A well-maintained boiler will use much less gas to heat your home.
Check for Boiler Issues – If you suspect your boiler is not functioning correctly (for example, it is taking longer to heat up or is producing unusual noises), call a qualified Gas Safe registered engineer to diagnose and repair any issues.
2. Mindful Habits
It is important to be mindful if you want to save on your gas bills. Consider the following tips:
Using Sunlight
Embrace Natural Light – Open your curtains and blinds during the day to allow the natural sunlight to warm your home. Utilise the sun’s warmth to help heat your home during the day, reducing your reliance on artificial heating.
Maximise Daylight – Position the furniture in your home strategically to make the most of the natural sunlight.
Use The Curtains
Prevent Heat Loss – Close the curtains and blinds at night to prevent heat from escaping through the windows.
Reduce Draughts – Curtains can also help to reduce draughts around windows, further improving your home’s energy efficiency.
Consider Thick Curtains – Invest in thick, lined curtains for added insulation.
Final Thoughts
By following these simple tips, you can significantly reduce your gas consumption and keep your home cosy this winter without breaking the bank. It’s important to remember to be patient. Making significant improvements to your home’s energy efficiency may take time and investment. However, the long-term savings on your gas bills will be well worth it.
Consider consulting a qualified assessor who can conduct a comprehensive evaluation of your home’s energy efficiency and recommend targeted improvements. Don’t be discouraged if you can’t implement all of these tips at once. Start with a few small changes and gradually work your way through the list. Remember, even small changes can make a big difference!
We hope this comprehensive guide empowers you to stay warm and save money this winter!
MATTHEW JENKINS
Matthew Jenkins has worked as a self-employed tradesman in the domestic heating industry for over fifteen years. Matthew is a gas-safe engineer specialising in heating and plumbing.
He also works closely with MyJobQuote to provide expert knowledge to homeowners and tradespeople and has been featured in a range of established news outlets.
Winter can be a challenging time for houseplants. The colder temperatures, reduced daylight, and dry indoor air can all take a toll on their health. However, with a few simple tips, you can keep your houseplants thriving throughout the winter months.
Gardening and plants expert Fiona Jenkins at MyJobQuote.co.uk explains why winter is so harsh on houseplants and provides some tips on how to keep your houseplants alive during this challenging time.
Understanding Winter’s Impact on Houseplants
As the days grow shorter, the amount of natural light available to your houseplants decreases. This can lead to slower growth, weaker stems, and pale, leggy foliage.
Central heating systems can significantly reduce the humidity levels in your home. Dry air can cause your plants to lose moisture through their leaves, leading to brown tips, wilting, and a decline in overall health.
Draughts from windows, doors, and heating vents can expose your plants to sudden temperature changes. These fluctuations can stress your plants, making them more susceptible to diseases and pests.
Tips for Keeping Your Houseplants Healthy in Winter
There are several things that you can do to ensure that your houseplants remain healthy and thriving during the winter months.
Below is a list of steps that you should take to keep your houseplants in top shape during this time of the year …
Adjust Your Watering Routine
First of all, your houseplant growth will slow down during winter. At this time, the plants will require less water. Overwatering can result in root rot. This is a fatal condition for many houseplants.
Before watering, insert your finger into the soil to check its moisture level. You should only water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Cold water can shock the roots of your plants. Instead, use lukewarm water to maintain optimal soil temperature.
Provide Adequate Light
It’s important to ensure that your plants get enough light at this time of the year. Position your plants near South-facing windows to maximise exposure to natural light.
If the natural light in your home is insufficient, consider using artificial grow lights to supplement the light your plants receive. Look for full-spectrum grow lights that mimic natural sunlight.
Be sure to rotate your plants regularly to ensure even growth and prevent them from leaning towards the light source.
Maintain Optimal Humidity
Humidity is important to ensure good health for many houseplants. Consider using a spray bottle to mist your plants with lukewarm water, especially those with delicate foliage. This helps to increase humidity levels around the plants.
Grouping plants together can create a microclimate with increased humidity. The plants release moisture into the air, which helps to maintain a humid environment.
A humidifier is also an effective way to increase the humidity levels in your home. Consider using a cool mist humidifier to avoid scalding your plants.
Monitor for Pests and Diseases
It’s important to monitor your plants to ensure they are surviving the winter months well. Regularly inspect your plants for signs of pests and diseases. If you do notice any infestations, make sure to isolate the infected plant to prevent the spread of pests or diseases to other plants.
Consider using a natural pesticide or insecticidal soap to treat infestations. Avoid using harsh chemical pesticides that can harm your plants and the environment.
Protect Your Plants from Draughts
Draughts can be harmful to plants, so it’s important to keep your houseplants away from them. Move your plants away from draughty areas, such as near windows, doors, or heating vents. Draughts can cause sudden temperature fluctuations, which can stress your plants.
Consider grouping your plants together to create a warmer microclimate. This can help protect them from cold draughts and temperate fluctuations.
Final Thoughts
Winter doesn’t have to be a death sentence for your houseplants. With a little bit of understanding of how the season affects them and some proactive care, you can help your leafy companions thrive even in the colder months. Remember, the key lies in mimicking their natural environment as much as possible.
By adjusting your watering routine, providing adequate light, maintaining optimal humidity, and protecting them from draughts, you can ensure your plants stay vibrant and healthy all winter long. So ditch the brown leaves and drooping stems and enjoy the company of your flourishing greenery throughout the entire year!
FIONA JENKINS
Fiona Jenkins is a UK-based landscaper with over twenty-five years of experience in the industry. As a gardening expert for MyJobQuote, one of the UK’s top trades-matching sites, Fiona offers her expert advice to MyJobQuote’s tradespeople and homeowners and has also been featured as a gardening expert for a range of reputable publications.
Road accidents see a spike in the run-up to Christmas, and while this can be due to increased traffic volume, driver fatigue also has a big part to play as it’s estimated that 10 to 20% of crashes happen because of tired driving.
Christmas is a busy time and the stress from frequent holiday gatherings, Christmas shopping and planning can cause a lot of people to feel exhausted and sleep deprived.
It’s important for drivers to make sure they’re well rested before getting behind the wheel, as they’re twice as likely to crash if they’ve had five to six hours of sleep compared to the recommended eight hours.
Drivers are also told to plan regular rest breaks for longer journeys, taking a break for at least 15 minutes every two hours.
Tired drivers are most likely to crash on monotonous roads such as motorways because of the lack of driver stimulation, potentially leading to microsleeping behind the wheel.
Microsleeping happens when tired drivers nod off for up to 30 seconds and data has revealed one in three Brits have experienced it.
Eating can also exacerbate fatigue and drowsiness, so it’s best to let the food settle for a few hours after eating a big Christmas meal at a holiday gathering.
Cat Wiltshire from Online-Bedrooms.co.uk said: “While fatigued driving is a danger throughout the whole year, the risks are further increased during the Christmas season, as many people struggle with festive burnout.
“Many of us feel exhausted in the run-up to Christmas as it’s a high-intensity period filled with office parties, holiday gatherings, endless Christmas shopping trips and lots of travelling to ensure you’re spending time with all your loved ones.
“The roads are a lot busier around the holiday season which already increases the risk of collisions, and adding fatigue to the mix makes the situation far more dangerous.
“Before driving home for Christmas, it’s crucial to ensure you get enough sleep the night before, especially if you’re planning to head out early to avoid traffic.
“Even going to bed an hour or two earlier before a long car journey can make a big difference, as those getting five to six hours of sleep are twice as likely to crash compared to seven to eight hours.
“Taking regular breaks is also important, especially if you’re driving for more than two hours. Even if your journey is shorter, make sure to look out for signs of fatigue such as excessive yawning and heavy eyelids.”
Everyone is familiar with the old saying ‘there’s no use crying over spilled milk’, but it’s spilled gravy that might be doing the damage this Christmas – and NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde is asking the public to take extra care when they’re serving up the Turkey this December 25th.
Burns from hot gravy are among reasons why people self-present at Accident and Emergency (A&E) departments on Christmas Day. Other common minor conditions include cuts from parents using box cutters and craft knives to open presents, falls from ladders following decorations being hung or presents decanted from lofts, and acid reflux or constipation.
Debbie McCoach, Interim Lead Nurse at the Glasgow Royal Infirmary, Accident and Emergency Department, said: “Christmas Day at home is mostly full of buzz, excitement – and let’s be honest – chaos.
“In times of hectic family life, rational thinking can go out of the window and accidents can very quickly and easily happen. We’re asking everyone to have a lot of fun but approach things with caution, particularly when it comes to the kitchen.”
Upset tummies and respiratory issues from seasonal illnesses are also big with self-presenters at A&E, which are minor illnesses that should be treated elsewhere.
Dr Claire Harrow, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde Deputy Medical Director for Acute Services said: “We’re also asking people to be aware when and when not to attend the Accident and Emergency department.
“A&E is for urgent injuries and life-threatening care. Otherwise, on Christmas Day, people should be calling NHS24 on 111 if they have a minor injury or minor illness. In doing so, they’ll be provided advice and will be given an appointment if required, virtually or in-person.
“After all, no one wants to be sitting in a waiting room on Christmas Day!”
There are instances where A&E will be essential and, when it comes to safety, paediatricians are asking parents and carers to be extra vigilant of their child at home to avoid hospital this Christmas.
Staff at the Royal Hospital for Children A&E have highlighted the anticipated big hitters when it comes to objects causing serious injuries this Christmas, along with some advice on how to avoid them.
Dr Joanne Stirling, Consultant in Paediatric Emergency Medicine at the Royal Hospital for Children, Glasgow said: “Bikes and scooters are always big on Christmas lists and we’re pleading with parents to remember that if Santa is bringing anything with wheels, especially if it is motorised, then a helmet is also included. We’ve had a few incidents with eScooters this year and the injuries have been very serious.
“This request extends to the “big kids” of the family too. i.e. mum and dad who may be eager for a “wee shot”– trust us, if you’re unprotected, the injury won’t be worth it.”
Dr Stirling highlighted others for parents to watch out for and if an injury does occur, should be brought straight to A&E:
Button batteries if swallowed – We’re very lucky in the UK that most toys have the battery secured away by being screwed in place but there are toys that can be bought from abroad. Double check yours are secure.
Severe burns from hair straighteners – It is so easy to style your hair and leave the appliance within reach when you’re a busy parent. Even when switched off, the burn for a child can be serious. Always keep hair straighteners out of reach and stored away safely.
Swallowing liquitabs or cleaning products – Many products look like sweeties and are exciting for a child who won’t hesitate to pop them into their mouth. Keep in high cupboards or use safety lock on cupboard doors.
Water beads if swallowed – What appears as a harmless, small bead will expand once inside a child and can block their stomach. Check all gifts for smaller children to ensure they don’t contain these.
Claire is from Glasgow and has been a Senior Charge Nurse at NHS 24’s Cardonald contact centre for a year. She is working both Christmas Day and Boxing Day.
Claire says: “It has been lovely to take part in the school festive traditions with the kids throughout December. I’m really looking forward to attendingthe panto on Christmas Eve as well getting involved in some carol singing.
“It’s such a magical time of the year to spend time with the family, and we have lots of quality time planned in between my shifts.
“My top tip for over festive is if you have kids, ensure you have child-friendly remedies available at home.
“Pop into your local pharmacy where they can give you advice on the most appropriate medicines for your family.”
— Barratt Homes and David Wilson Homes Scotland partners with RSPB to compile nature-friendly tips —
In light of the recent cold snap, Barratt Homes and David Wilson Homes Scotland is putting nature first to inspire homeowners to create their own haven for wildlife during the colder months.
Combined, UK gardens and balconies are six times the size of Glasgow and Edinburgh, covering 4,000km2 – space that with a little care and attention could make a big difference for nature. This could be as simple as introducing nest boxes and bird feeders to planting wildlife-friendly flowers.
The housebuilder has partnered with the RSPB to create a list of wildlife-friendly features to incorporate into your garden for when temperatures plunge.
Provide shelter for a rainy day
When the weather takes a turn, birds need shelter to keep warm and dry. Nest boxes are the perfect option for small birds and are a popular spot for them during colder nights, with space to cosy up together for communal warmth.
For woodland creatures, creating a deadwood or leaf pile in your garden can be used for shelter and to keep warm.
Across Scotland, Barratt Homes and David Wilson Homes properties has planted over 5,000 new trees in development gardens and installed over 4,000 hedgehog highways in show home gardens.
Open an outdoor kitchen
Just like us, birds need extra energy during the colder seasons to keep warm. The smaller the bird, the more likely it is to be affected by long periods of cold weather.
With longer nights and poorer weather conditions, the options for finding food is limited for wildlife meaning they often venture outside of their usual sources in the quest to find food. Without food sources, birds are at risk of starvation, which often kills many birds during winter.
You can help your garden birds by providing some food when natural resources such as berries and seeds are running low, or hard to access because of the cold weather. Find safe places for hanging bird feeders offering calorie-rich seed mixes, good quality peanuts and suet balls. Move these feeders around, to prevent predators from getting used to their location and ensure all feeders are cleaned at least weekly.
Bird landscaping
Consider the plants you grow in the garden, as they can provide a year-round sanctuary for birds. Planting trees and shrubs for garden birds will not only provide a larger nesting space for birds to take cover and keep warm during winter, but also acts a cooling space to retreat to in summer.
Shrubs – such as native holly – provide birds with berries over the winter period, which are particularly popular among blackbirds, bullfinches, sparrows and winter thrushes.
Creating flower beds of varying heights can also provide cover for birds of different sizes. For instance, allowing perennials to remain standing through the winter can offer additional shelter.
Compost leftovers and greenery
To help minimise food waste over the festive period, consider building a compost heap to recycle organic household waste, including peelings and any uneaten vegetables. Our gardens also have a wealth of greenery that are perfect for compost piles, including dead trees, shrubs and grass cuttings.
Not only will it give you compost to fertilise your garden, but it also diversifies the wildlife in your garden, and you may see some robins and blackbirds nesting there come spring.
“At Barratt, we have a nationwide commitment to creating nature-friendly outdoor spaces of all sizes in our developments. These spaces range from gardens and balconies to communal areas, all of which are now flourishing with life.”
Adrian Thomas, RSPB’s wildlife gardening expert, said: “Whatever size your garden or outdoor space is, it can offer shelter and food to a huge variety of wildlife which is especially important in the coldest months.
“Winter gardens are also beneficial for people! Getting outside, breathing some fresh air and being closer to nature is likely to give your wellbeing a boost at a time of year when it may really need it. As does the chance to watch some of the wildlife that is making the most of your garden.
“Big Garden Birdwatch is a great example of this, showing how taking note of what birds are around us – even just for an hour – can be really valuable, helping us to relax, reflect and feel more connected.”
Barratt Homes’ commitment to creating wildlife-friendly areas across its Scotland developments include:
North Scotland:
3,578 new trees planted throughout developments
2,883 hedgehog highways installed in development gardens
77,722 new sapling hedgerows planted across developments
West Scotland:
1,749 new trees planted throughout developments
1,218 hedgehog highways installed in development gardens
East Scotland:
18 nest boxes in show home gardens
61 swift nesting bricks implemented throughout developments
The UK is home to spectacular wildlife and internationally important habitats, and yet it is in the bottom 10 per cent of countries globally for protecting nature.
Sadly, nature in the UK is in trouble and in need of a helping hand, having lost 38 million birds over the last 50 years, with house sparrows, starlings and song thrushes all considered birds of conservation concern.
For more tips to encourage wildlife into your garden this winter and beyond visit Nature on Your Doorstep here.
Motorists are being warned about winter driving hazards they need to be aware of as temperatures start to drop.
Experts from car insurance firm Quotezone.co.uk have revealed ways motorists can avoid penalty points, fines, higher insurance premiums and help keep themselves and other road users safe.
Winter is a dangerous time of year to be driving, with darker nights, awkward sunshine and icy road surfaces.
When asked about their biggest fear when driving in the winter, a recent Quotezone survey found 48% said driving in snow and icy conditions is their biggest worry.
To try to alleviate these fears, motorists are encouraged to plan ahead for the winter weather, be extra cautious and adjust their driving to meet the conditions.
Greg Wilson, car insurance expert and CEO of Quotezone.co.uk said: “Winter is probably the most challenging time of the year for drivers, as part of Road Safety Week we wanted to raise awareness of the difficulties many drivers face every day and encourage everyone to get prepared for winter.
“The Quotezone survey showed nearly half are worried about driving in snowy and icy conditions, but there are steps drivers can take to help keep them safe. It’s important to make sure the vehicle is road worthy – especially tyres, it’s vital they are fit for purpose, fully inflated and pass the 20p tread depth test to ensure they have enough grip in treacherous conditions.
“It’s sensible to give your vehicle some TLC before setting off, especially on longer road trips over the festive season to visit friends and family, ensuring all lights are working and fluid levels are all topped up. It can also be helpful to pack the boot with a winter survival kit, with essentials in case of an accident or breakdown.
“Road safety is paramount and something all drivers need to take seriously. We’re proud to support road safety charity Brake and the vital work they do supporting communities throughout Great Britain – their vision is a world where we can all move in a safe and healthy way, working to stop crashes on our roads, reduce harm when a crash happens, and help every road victim get the support they need, for as long as they need it.”
Quotezone.co.ukhas put together a list of five things to look out for when driving this winter:
1.Check tyres
Motorists can be fined a hefty £2,500 for each faulty tyre and receive three points on their driving licence. If the police see another tyre falling short, it doubles to £5,000 and six points. Four faulty tyres could even see the maximum 12 points, resulting in the loss of a driving licence. Bare and worn tyres will have less grip and be treacherous in icy conditions, when you insert a 20p into the gap in the tyre tread, the rubber needs to cover the bottom line of the 20p, to ensure the tyres have enough grip.
2.Clear your windscreen before you set off
Windscreens with inhibited views can land drivers with a £1,000 fine and three points on a driving licence. So any leaves, snow, ice, mud or even condensation, needs to be fully cleared before you start driving – not having a full view of the road is incredibly dangerous.
3.Defrosting
It’s tempting to leave the engine running while the windscreen unfreezes, and the car warms up. However, if the vehicle is stolen in the meantime, many insurance companies will not cover the loss. Leaving engines running, also known as ‘idling’ is also an offence under section 42 of the Road Traffic Act 1988. This is because it’s bad for the environment as it increases the amount of dangerous gases emitted into the air from the car’s exhaust. It’s also incredibly dangerous if done near a school so best to switch the engine off completely if waiting on the school pick-up.
4.Clean the number plate
Excess mud and grit on the roads this time of year can make your car dirty very quickly, and if the number plate isn’t clearly visible, drivers could face a fine of £1,000. The police need visible access to your number plate at all times, for the safety of all road users.
5.Driving in a flood
Some car insurance policies include clauses advising policyholders not to drive through flooded roads, and may specifically exclude cover for any water damage to the car if the motorist goes against this advice. It’s also extremely dangerous as the engine can stall and the vehicle can be left stranded.
It’s also sensible to pack the car with winter essentials before setting off, such as a torch, a blanket, a shovel, water and rations, a first aid kit, de-icer and a spare phone charger – to help cope with the unexpected.
Quotezone.co.uk helps drivers compare and save on all sorts of motoring products such as breakdown cover, car, motorbike and van insurance.
Experts Reveal You’re Sharing Your Home with Over 100 Spiders
If it feels like your home is crawling with more spiders than usual this season, you’re not imagining things. Peter Murray, a Home & Garden expert from Murray Steel Buildings, warns that the average UK home could be playing host to over 100 spiders – and they’re not where you’d expect.
As autumn settles in and temperatures drop, spiders are seeking out warm, sheltered spots in your home. “They’re drawn to dark, quiet spaces where they won’t be disturbed,” says Murray. “You’re most likely to find them in attics, under furniture, behind curtains, and surprisingly, even in your bed covers.”
Giant house spider (Eratigena atrica) on a tiled kitchen floor in a UK house
This year has seen a particular rise in household spider numbers, with species such as the common house spider and false widow becoming regular visitors indoors. The top places spiders are likely hiding include:
In the corners of ceilings – High-up and undisturbed, these areas are prime real estate for webs.
Under furniture – Sofas, beds, and armchairs provide perfect dark, cosy spots.
In garages and sheds – Wide, untouched spaces are favourites for building webs.
Behind curtains and in bed covers – Anywhere warm and undisturbed is attractive to spiders, including the folds of your bedding.
Around sinks and drains – Bathrooms and kitchens attract spiders due to moisture.
Murray advises, “Though they may seem creepy, spiders help control pests like flies and other insects. However, if you want to keep their numbers down, regular cleaning, reducing clutter, and sealing up cracks around windows and doors will help.”
Rest and get plenty of sleep
Take paracetamol alongside flu remedies that also contain paracetamol
