How to keep warm

Cold homes have a huge impact on your physical health and mental wellbeing.

Living in a cold home carries a number of health risks, including asthma, flu or more serious conditions such as heart disease, stroke and depression.

It can take its toll on your mental health, with 1 in 4 adults living in cold homes experiencing mental health problems – see our mental health and wellbeing page for help and support.

Staying well 

Following these simple, easy steps will help keep you warm and healthy in your own home:

  • Heat your home to at least 18°c
  • Keep your bedroom window closed on winter nights
  • Keep active when indoors
  • If you’re eligible, make sure you get your flu jab
  • Make sure you’re receiving all the help that you’re entitled to
  • Visit your local pharmacist as soon as you start to feel unwell
  • If you are struggling to keep warm, find out about our AWARM Plus service.

For more information and advice, visit NHS Live Well.

Top tips to winter proof your home

  • A thermostat controls the boiler and radiator valves control water flow – use both for best energy efficiency
  • Draught proof the home - Shut all inside doors and use draught excluders at the bottom of them to conserve heat and energy
  • Bleed radiators - If the top of the radiator is colder than the bottom, they need bleeding. This ensures you're getting the full amount of heat possible
  • Insulate your hot water pipes by sliding foam insulation tubes over them. These can be bought online or in a DIY store, you could even use any leftover tubes as draught excluders for the bottom of your doors!

© Wigan Council