The cold is setting in in France: how to heat yourself while paying less?

According to the annual barometer of the National Energy Mediator, one in three French people is cold during the winter. The barometer also revealed that 85% of the population says they are concerned about their energy bill, but also that 75% of French people have reduced heating for financial reasons. Temperatures are falling and the cold is settling in France this week. It's time to stock up for the winter, and in particular to think about your wood and fuel oil. How to pay less? Maud Descamps’ advice in Bonjour! The Morning TF1 (new window).

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  Wood, fuel or electric: which heating method will be the cheapest this winter?

Choose your wood wisely to save money

Today, around seven million homes heat with wood. A cubic meter of wood costs between 70 and 120 euros. If the range is so wide, it is because the price differs depending on the region. Also, to pay less for your log, don't hesitate to look around your neighbor, especially if you live on the border between two departments. Furthermore, don't hesitate to stock up now, because the longer you wait, the higher the prices will go. However, wood remains the most economical heating method. In addition, you must be particularly vigilant when making your reservations. Indeed, you may be tempted by cheaper steres, but often this means that the wood is of lower quality. Result: it burns more quickly and heats you up for less time. Therefore, you will have to buy them more frequently. It is therefore advisable to turn to oak, beech or even hornbeam which burns less quickly. Also check the humidity level when purchasing wood. This should be around 20%. Above, the wood may never set and will only give off smoke.

Heating with oil costs more

Bad news for homes that heat with oil, prices are starting to rise again, due to fluctuations in the price of crude oil. Furthermore, with the arrival of winter, the demand for domestic fuel increases, which increases prices. Currently, 1000 liters costs on average 1105 euros. Here too, there are disparities between the regions of France. The Journal of Economics underlines that it is in Franche-Comté that the price is the lowest (1057 euros for 1000 liters) and it is in Champagne-Ardenne that it is the highest (1137 for 1000 liters). To make some savings, don’t hesitate to use online comparators. Another option: fill your tank halfway rather than filling it entirely.

Maintain your heaters to lower your electricity bill

Finally, with the cold setting in, many French households decide to turn on the electric heaters again. Don't forget to clean them beforehand and remove any dust that may have accumulated over the year. Maintaining heaters is crucial to guarantee their proper functioning and, above all, a poorly maintained device consumes more energy, especially with the dust that accumulates. Result: the electricity bill jumps. Likewise, don't forget to bleed water radiators and heat pumps. This helps eliminate trapped air and ensures heat exchange.