HEATING and EATING PART 3:
PART 3 of my HEATING and EATING Blogs, which have similarities between life in 2024 and that of the 1940s!
This Blog will summarize Parts 1 and 2, and will indicate items which can be purchased online.
PART 1 Summary: KEEPING THE DRAUGHTS OUT and THE HEAT IN!
Keeping a home as warm as possible whilst keeping energy costs low.
Insulation of lofts and walls. (*Government grants available. Information online).
Windows may be double or triple glazed, but check for draughts.
*Window sealer, heavy blinds and curtains.
*Door sealers
*Draught excluders
*Door curtains
Moving chairs etc away from window or door locations.
Switch lights and appliances off when not in use.
Keep doors closed.
Monitor best times for central heating.
Bleed radiators.
*Reflective foil behind radiators.
*Plenty of fuel if an open fire. (Make sure chimney is clean and fire safety items in place.
*Hot water bottles.
*Woollen / microfleece blankets.
Extra layers of clothing.
Hot drinks available in *flasks.
ITEMS MARKED * CAN BE SOURCED AT A VARIETY OF STORES ONLINE.
PART 2 Summary: BUDGETING and COOKING
Keep to a budget when buying food and cooking meals.
Compile lists for food shopping and other necessities and stick to it.
Compare prices between shops.
Buy "own brands".
Buy in bulk.
Look out for special deals and promotions.
Evening shopping has good deals at end of day.
Online shopping allows price comparisons and to stick to a list or amount spent.
Children tend to constantly ask for things, it may be a good idea to be child free when shopping.
Avoid ready meals, highly processed food and items with a high sugar and salt content.
Include plenty of vegetables. Frozen vegetables are a good buy.
Make good use of freezer.
Soups are easy and cheap to make, are nutritious and freeze well.
Batch cooking and baking is more energy efficient and saves time, as several meals can be frozen.
The same basic recipe with a few twists and additions can produce a variety of dishes such as spaghetti, shepherds pie and lasagna.
PART 3
It is also important to keep moving.
Depending on the age group, this may be easier said than done.
Elderly people may have health issues and find it difficult to mobilize effectively. However, if possible, frequent walking around the house, and if possible a safe walk outside, will keep circulation and joint mobility working well.
Younger family members can opt to walk or cycle instead of other forms of transport, which is also good for improving mental health.
We have become a society of car lovers, which has encouraged laziness, and lack of exercise which has led into the obesity debate.
A positive mind set should also be encouraged, as after all, winter doesn`t last for ever.
In a few months we will have warmer weather and draught excluders will be a distant memory.
In the meantime, try to stay cheerful and make the best of what you have, and appreciate the little things.
Health is the most important thing to look after during winter weather, so be grateful for every healthy day.
