Homeowners hoping to save on heating bills this winter have been advised to take tips from igloo-dwellers in a bid to save money and stay warm as temperatures dip in the coming months.
The Inuit people of Canada, Greenland and the Arctic are masters at staying warm in a freezing climate, and a number of insulation and bedding experts say we can draw inspiration from their strategies in our own homes.
One of the innovations that helps keep Inuits warm at night is a raised platform that elevates the level at which they sleep, taking advantage of the principle that warm air rises.
“We can take inspiration from some of the strategies to keep our houses warm, such as sleeping higher up,” said an expert at bedding supplier, Bensons for Beds.
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“As heated air is thinner than colder air, it makes sense that it naturally rises. Therefore, kids sleeping in the top of a bunk bed or a high or mid-sleeper bed could feel the benefits.”
Despite the freezing external temperatures, igloos have vents at the top of the dome, which allows fresh air in and moist air out. This keeps the inside dry, and applying this tip in our own homes could help to prevent mould.
“It may be tempting to close any vents leading to the outside of your home but it’s important not to do this,” warning Rachel Marshall of Bensons for Beds.
“Air vents are in your home for a reason. They’ve been designed to allow air to flow through your home, and also to prevent a build-up of humidity. Excess humidity can lead to mould, which then can lead to health problems.”
The elderly, the young, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions are most susceptible to health issues caused by mould. However, research shows that it can also lead to insomnia and allergic rhinitis.
Another strategy exemplified by igloos is effective insulation. Rather than requiring major investment and renovation works this winter, however, simply investing in good-quality bedding is an effective way of insulating on cold nights.
A good all-seasons duvet is a good start in this regard, while thick curtains will also help. These should be closed at night for insulation but opened during the day to allow natural light to heat up the bedroom.
Draft excluders are also a cheap and effective way of reducing the chill, and can be made from towels or bundled up socks.
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