In an era of soaring energy bills, one woman from the south coast of England is proving that staying warm without central heating is not only possible but remarkably affordable.
A three-decade commitment to cold comfort
Sarah Smith, a 56-year-old director from Bournemouth, has not switched on her boiler or central heating system for an astonishing 30 years. Despite the UK's often chilly winters, she maintains a cosy home for an estimated £150 each winter, a fraction of the average household's heating cost.
Speaking to The Sun newspaper ahead of the Christmas period, Sarah explained that her unconventional choice has become a long-standing family joke. "Our family has regularly said we should put heating in," she admitted. The decision was reinforced as recently as 2005, when during a bathroom renovation, they opted once again against installing a heating system. "We've got so used to it," she said.
The practical toolkit for a warm home
Sarah's strategy relies on a combination of clever gadgets, adaptable bedding, and strategic layering rather than cranking up the thermostat. Her arsenal includes a gas fire, an oil-filled radiator positioned in the hallway, electric blankets, and a two-duvet system with poppers. This allows her to detach one duvet for storage in warmer months and reattach both for maximum insulation during winter.
She is also a strong advocate for thermal clothing, a far cry from the bulky undergarments of the past. "Wearing thermals under clothing is a great way to go and you can get such nice versions now," Sarah noted, singling out the soft and patterned M&S Heatgen range as a particular favourite.
Who can adopt this low-energy lifestyle?
Sarah is quick to acknowledge that her method "is not for everyone," particularly households with young children, elderly relatives, or vulnerable individuals who require a consistently warm environment.
However, she believes many of her principles can be adapted to help others conserve energy and save money. Using an electric blanket, for instance, can delay the moment the heating needs to be switched on or allow the thermostat to be set lower when it is in use.
When asked if she misses having conventional heating, Sarah's answer is definitive: "People often ask me if I miss heating and I really don't." She concedes this might change as she gets older, but for now, her primary motivation is sharing knowledge. "But for now if any of my tips can help someone save some money and stay warm, then that's good enough for me."
