The UK is currently in the clutches of a cold snap, prompting the importance of keeping warm indoors. However, with the rise in energy and heating costs, it’s more crucial than ever to stretch your pennies further.
A common domestic energy waster which can undermine even the highest heating setting is an elusive draught sneaking in through windows or doors. Worry not, as the household gurus at Which? have stepped up with a straightforward solution to banish those annoying draughts, reports the Mirror.
Demonstrating in a recently released TikTok video, they showcase how homeowners can eradicate window and door draughts using nothing but a trusty Allen key – an investment that won’t break the bank at just £11.99 for a set of nine from Amazon, working out at £1.30 each.
The Which? specialist said: “A lot of uPVC windows and doors have easy adjustment features inside the frames that can eliminate those cold gaps.”
They also provide an easy-to-follow guide: Start by opening the window or door to reveal an inner panel with screws dictating the tightness of closure.
By inserting the Allen key into the top screw, the specialist said: “Slightly turning this cam here pulls the strike plate in, which means the closed window will be pulled tighter.”
If closing becomes hard, a slight turn in the opposite direction creates a bit more space, making it easier. The expert said: “And just like that, a draught-free window.”
For windows without an Allen key cam, there may be an alternative solution to eliminate the draught. Nevertheless, the experts cautioned homeowners to exercise caution before attempting any adjustments to their windows or doors.
Inspecting the hinges with the window open, the expert added: “It might require some more fiddly adjustments. It’s still worth doing, but remember to check your manufacturer’s instructions before making any adjustments.”