Energy efficiency is not only about complex technical solutions but also about simple daily actions that help us get through the “dark” times more comfortably
In the context of daily, prolonged power outages and insufficient heating of homes, it is important to understand that every drop of saved energy and heat can make a family’s everyday life more comfortable and pleasant.
Therefore, the State Agency on Energy Efficiency has prepared simple, low-cost energy-saving tips for every family to help retain heat and improve comfort at home during extended electricity and heating outages. Let’s use them.
1. Sealing windows and doors
Uncontrolled drafts are the main source of heat loss from a room. Up to 30–40% of heat can be lost through cracks and leaky joints in window and door structures.
What to do: Seal window and door frames. Use rubber or silicone seals available in hardware stores.
Foam rubber, paper, fabric, or special self-adhesive tape can be used as temporary sealing.
Pay special attention to the entrance door and balcony doors.
Result: Fewer drafts, more stable indoor temperature, and more heat retained inside.
2. Heat-reflective foil behind heat sources
Walls “absorb” heat, especially external ones. Foil reflects heat back into the room.
What to do: Use special thermal insulation foil or even regular kitchen foil. Fix it to the wall behind a heater or radiator (if it works occasionally).
Result: Up to 5–10% more useful heat in the room without extra costs.
3. Thick curtains or blankets on windows
Glass is one of the main sources of heat loss.
For example, three-chamber double-glazed windows are among the most effective solutions to reduce heat loss through glass. However, if replacing windows is not possible, simple measures can help.
What to do: Close windows at night with thick curtains, plaids, or blankets. Open them during the day to let in solar heat.
Result: Comfortable temperature and warmth will last longer overnight.
4. Carpets and floor insulation
Cold from concrete floors in poorly heated rooms significantly reduces the feeling of warmth.
What to do: Lay carpets, runners, plaids, or blankets on the floor. This is especially relevant for first floors and corner apartments where floor cold is most noticeable.
Result: Warmer feet — and the whole body feels warmer. More heat stays in the room.
5. Limiting the heated space
A smaller space is easier to heat and keep warm.
What to do: Close doors to unused rooms. Concentrate family activities in 1–2 rooms that are easier to insulate and heat.
Result: Less heat loss, more comfort.
6. Accumulating heat during periods of electricity and heating supply
A house “remembers” heat.
What to do: Warm up rooms without drafts when heating or electricity is available. After outages, insulate the space as much as possible so the stored heat lasts longer.
7. Energy-saving lighting and appliances
Lower consumption means longer operation from batteries and power banks.
What to do: Replace regular bulbs with LED lamps — this can reduce electricity use for lighting by up to 10 times. Unplug appliances when not in use.
8. Proper ventilation of premises
Humidity makes air feel colder and harms health.
What to do: Ventilate properly. For example, 5–10 minutes of intensive airing is better than keeping a window slightly open all the time. Close windows tightly afterward.
9. Safe use of alternative heat sources
Important! Gas burners, candles, or alcohol stoves are not intended for heating rooms.
They may be used:
Only for cooking
With ventilation
For short periods
Risks: Carbon monoxide, fires, poisoning.
10. Safety is the main rule
Do not forget the most important safety rule — never use appliances prohibited for space heating, such as:
Generators
Charcoal grills
Gas stoves
Coal burners
This can cost lives. Let’s protect them.
Conclusions
Even during prolonged absence of electricity and centralized heating, simple daily energy-efficient habits can significantly improve comfort at home. However, actions must be careful — and, most importantly, systematic.