Experts advise use rugs to reduce energy costs

Energy experts have advised households with hardwood, engineered wood, or laminate flooring to lay rugs on their floors during the winter months to save energy, although there are exceptions to this recommendation.

Wood is a good choice for flooring as it looks good and is easy to clean, but it can make rooms more expensive to heat. Rugs prevent heat from escaping and can reduce heating bills. John Lawless of heating supplier Best Heating recommends a faux sheepskin rug on hard surface flooring, which insulates a room by creating a thermal layer to keep the cold out. As a general rule, the thicker the rug, the more effective it is for retaining heat.

If engineered wood or laminate flooring is installed with an insulating underlay that retains heat, rugs may not be necessary. Underfloor heating is a good way to keep laminate and engineered flooring areas warm without rugs.

As well as insulating the floor, using the "low and slow” heating method is recommended, which means keeping the heat at a moderate temperature for longer periods rather than high temperatures for a shorter time. For those struggling to afford heating bills, try turning down the heating system temperature and use hot water bottles, duvets and blankets to keep warm.

A good quality thick pile carpet is also good for heat retention and has sound-insulating properties.

For advice on the best floor covering options to keep the home warm in the North Wales area, contact a local flooring company.