There are numerous ways of only using as much thermal energy as is absolutely necessary through correct heating, sensible ventilation and other small and large precautions. Not only homeowners, but also tenants can save several hundred euros a year with little effort. As is so often the case in life, however, it depends on the right amount, because if the dwelling stays too cold for a long period of time, it threatens to become moldy. If that happens, it will be really expensive to be able to live comfortably again. A four-digit amount quickly accumulates, even for an infestation that is only superficial. A basic mold remediation would then be much more expensive.
As a quick and effective measure, you should first bleed all radiators – at the latest when they start making gurgling noises. To do this, the heating must be switched off briefly. The heater vent valve is then opened with a vent key and held open until all air has escaped. A small container can be used to catch dripping water. The valve is then simply closed again.
Next, completely remove dust, covers and any ornaments from all radiators. Dust on the radiators can reduce their performance by up to a third. Of course, neither doilies, flower pots or wet laundry have not lost on it. The freer and cleaner the heater is, the better.
Despite the difficult market situation at times – if, for example, almost all providers raise their prices – it can make sense to think about changing contracts or providers. Because there are almost always differences, be it in the contract period, the price guarantee or the ratio of consumption price to basic price. It can also make sense for some customers, for example, to switch to the basic service tariffs. At times when heating prices are generally low, this is usually not an advantage, but if there is a general price increase, this can be a lucrative opportunity for savings.
However, the most effective way to save coal on heating is to find the right room temperature. There is no generally applicable minimum room temperature, such as the 19 degrees that are often rumored at the moment, said Dr. Rolf Bosse from the tenants’ association Hamburg dem stern. Adequate and mostly sufficient are 20 to 22 degrees. But if it gets below 16 degrees – and that’s without a room being currently inhabited – it can be dangerous. Because the enemy that must be fought with all frugality is mold.
It usually appears in the form of dark spots and, in addition to severe damage to the building stock, can also have negative effects on health. Especially on ailing window seals and door frames, mold quickly forms due to condensing water if the heat and humidity ratio allows it.
Moisture penetrating from the outside and not completely draining away again also causes mold growth, as does poor room insulation or a lack of ventilation. You can usually do little against dilapidated walls or windows – at least as a tenant. However, regular ventilation can and should become a daily habit.
If you consider that an adult already excretes about a liter of moisture a day just by sweating, it should be clear that this moisture has to be removed again. And in addition to sufficient heating, this can only be achieved through regular airing. Since cold incoming air contains less moisture than warm air, the exchange of air ensures that the moisture is transported outside. All windows should be open at the same time two to three times a day for five to ten minutes so that the air is exchanged as completely as possible.
Source: Tenants’ Association Hamburg
