Working from home is a career goal for many people. From the zero commute time and a better life-balance to being more productive and having extra time with the kids, there is an abundance of perks to the remote work lifestyle. However, with increased time at home comes a higher use of utilities – including your heating. Some may say you can’t put a price on being warm, but if you’re working from home a lot, the bills can easily add up.
It’s also better for the environment to make eco-friendly decisions when heating your home. So, with that in mind, here are our top tips to stay warm as you work from home — without turning up the heat.
1. Draught-Proof Your Home
Draught-proofing is one of the cheapest and most effective ways to save energy and money in your home. Draughts let in cold air and waste too much heat, so it’s especially important to get on top of this.
To draught-proof your home, block up unwanted gaps that let cold air in and warm air out. Pay special attention to your windows as faulty hinges, loose interlocking blocks or a damaged seal are common contributing factors. Window replacement may be a necessary but invaluable investment for your home comfort. By stopping warm air from escaping, your home will be more snug and pleasant and you’ll save money too!
2. Make a Hot Water Bottle
Hot water bottles are a fantastic, inexpensive heating option. The heat gradually escapes through the bottle and travels directly to you, meaning you can hold it, set it on your lap, put it inside your jumper — anything that’ll keep you connected.
3. Use an Insulated Flask
Those of us who love a hot cup of tea or coffee as we’re working will understand the disappointment of our beverage turning cold within a few minutes. Well, an insulated flask isn’t just for the great outdoors — you can use it at home too! Fill the flask up with your drink of choice and it’ll stay warm for 8-12 hours — more than enough time to see you through the workday with hot drinks on tap.
4. Enjoy a Warm Lunch
On a similar note, a hot lunch during your workday will warm you up nicely. Soup is an easy, affordable and healthy option that’ll keep you running for the rest of the afternoon. Other great options are homemade noodles, a jacket potato or a comforting toastie.
5. Wear Socks
When there’s a chill in the air, your hands and feet are the first to feel the pinch. Why is this? Well, as human beings, we regulate our core temperature. So, when it’s hot outside, the body uses your hands and feet to get rid of excess heat to keep itself from “overheating”. Similarly, when it’s freezing outside, the body pulls heat from your hands and feet and gives it back to your body’s core to keep it comfy and warm. Therefore, it makes sense to wrap up your feet. Cosy socks and fluffy slippers work a treat.
Working from home is a lifestyle choice that needs to be sustainable — no matter what the season. Use these suggestions in your every-day routine to feel cosy and warm so you can comfortably tackle that work to-do list.
