Brits urged to do bizarre factor with crisp packets in an effort to maintain heat this winter
As the winter draws in and it starts to get freezing, Brits are turning to some eccentric ways to keep their house warm including a radiator hack that has divided opinion
Brits are trying all sorts in a desperate bid to keep warm this year, including doing something strange with crisp packets.
Heating expert Mark McShane, from Boiler Cover UK, says homeowners should tuck empty crisp packets behind their radiators. Once they’ve been rinsed, the tiny rectangles of metallised plastic film should be taped directly behind the radiator.
The crisp packet material reflects heat back towards the middle of the room, meaning it doesn’t escape through the walls. The “simple yet effective” trick is an easy way to “make the most of your heating”, according to McShane. Environment research at University of Cambridge Professor Ronita Bardhan dubbed the trick “a creative idea”.
Speaking to the Daily Mail, Bardhan said: “The idea of putting crisp packets behind radiators did make me chuckle. There is some scientific logic to the use of reflective materials behind radiators, yet using crisp packets for this purpose is both ineffective and potentially unsafe.”
She added: “Research shows that this approach can result in modest energy savings, particularly in older or poorly insulated building.”
Brits are preparing for a chilly season ahead with warnings of a snow bomb and harsh -9C freeze looming. As the cold begins to bite with low-pressure systems sweeping in from the Atlantic, it’s nearly impossible to avoid switching on the heating at home.
However, with energy costs sky-high and the NHS recommending households turn on heating once outdoor temperatures fall below 15C, many are searching for cost-effective ways to keep warm. Consumer website Which? has now revealed a trick to help warm your room “quickly and efficiently” – requiring just a £1.35 item you likely already own.
In a TikTok post, the consumer specialists demonstrated how to “maximise your heat”. Which? revealed: “Putting foil behind radiators allows the heat to be reflected back into the room. This is particularly effective on external walls.”
“You can pick up radiator reflector foil for around £8. It’s padded, and usually has an adhesive backing so it’s really easy to install. But kitchen foil also works as a low cost alternative.”
For instance, tin foil can be purchased in Tesco for just £1.35. The specialists advised: “Measure the distance between the brackets on your radiator and cut the foil to size. If it doesn’t have adhesive pads, you can use double-sided sticky tape to secure it in place.”
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