In winter, heating costs often rise by 30% compared to summer—naturally, with temperatures dropping significantly.
While we have tips to stay warm, turning on the heating is often unavoidable. The issue? Radiators mounted on walls lose much of their heat to the wall itself.
This scattered heat fails to warm the room effectively, leaving a chilly sensation. Fortunately, a proven DIY solution redirects 90% of the heat back into your living space instead of wasting it on the wall.
The fix: Install aluminum foil behind your radiator to amplify its output. Here's how:

1. Cut a piece of cardboard to match your radiator's size.
2. Cover one side completely with aluminum foil.
3. Secure the foil at the corners with staples to hold it in place.
4. Slide the foil-covered cardboard behind the radiator.
That's it—your radiator's power is now enhanced with just a sheet of aluminum foil.
Simple, quick, and highly effective. Say goodbye to skyrocketing winter energy bills.
Stay warmer without cranking up the thermostat, saving money even in extreme cold.
Far better than heating walls unnecessarily. This method warms rooms efficiently while cutting costs.
Apply it to every radiator in your home for maximum impact.
No cardboard? Use removable tape to attach foil directly to the wall behind the heater.
No foil? Consider purchasing a dedicated heat reflector.
Aluminum foil reflects up to 95% of the radiator's rear-emitted heat back into the room.
Instead of warming the wall, you're directing heat where it matters—your living space.
Céline Thomas, a reader from comment-economiser.fr, shared her real-world experience: "My kitchen was always freezing. I taped foil behind the radiator, and it's like adding a whole new unit—the difference is amazing!"
This technique suits both electric radiators and cast iron radiators in water circuits.
Key safety note: Maintain a few centimeters of space between the radiator and foil to prevent overheating.