Should you put crisp packets behind radiators this winter?

Could placing empty crisp packets behind your radiator make your house warmer and save money on your energy bills? <i>(Image: Andrew Smart/Newsquest)</i>
Could placing empty crisp packets behind your radiator make your house warmer and save money on your energy bills? (Image: Andrew Smart/Newsquest)
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With households across the UK looking for ways to save money on their heating, a number of strange hacks have swept across the nation.

One such technique, which has even received attention on national television, is the placing of used crisp packets behind radiators.

The idea behind this is that the foil material of the packets will reflect heat back into your home.

When this idea was suggested by former Conservative MP Edwina Currie on Good Morning Britain, MoneySavingExpert founder Martin Lewis and co-host Susanna Reid were literally left with their heads in their hands.

Does putting crisp packets behind your radiator really lower heating bills?

Experts have expressed various opinions on this topic, with the professionals over at Plumbworld suggesting that it can work.

They said: "In short, yes, it can provide a modest boost in efficiency. Studies and practical tests on similar reflective techniques show that they can reduce heat loss through walls by up to 10-20% in poorly insulated setups, potentially saving a few pounds on your energy bills over the winter months, depending on your home's size, insulation levels, and heating usage."

Radiator being adjusted by handWhile the hack can work, it has been deemed mostly ineffective (Image: Getty Images/Andrey Sinenkiy)

However, they pointed out that it may not be a "game changer" like upgrading to energy-efficient radiators or improving whole-home insulation.

This point was echoed by Rebecca Routledge, a money-saving expert at Money Wellness, an organisation commissioned by the government’s Money and Pensions Service.

She said that this radiator hack isn't something she'd recommend as it is "unlikely to make a noticeable difference and could even be a fire risk if the packets touch a hot radiator."

Emily Green, home appliance expert at Howarth Timber, adds that properly designed radiator reflectors are the way to go for those wanting to try this out.

Fitting these onto uninsulated walls can save up to £25 a year on heating for a typical home.

They also have the reflective and insulating properties that crisp packets lack.

Sam Carter, radiator expert at Appliances Direct, also promoted purpose-built panels over crisp packets.


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He echoed similar points from other experts, pointing out that crisp packet foil is much too fragile and ineffective when compared to purpose-built panels.

He added that the hack may also have the unintended consequence of making your home smell like crisps.

While this may be a selling point to some, most would rather avoid this altogether.

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