The small action may make a big difference to your energy bills
Experts have urged people to try a two-second job that could save them money on their bills. With temperatures plummeting across the UK this January, British Gas have encouraged people to try these hacks before turning up the heating.
The first hack is simple. Use your oven. Those in the know say it would be a waste to keep the heat trapped in your oven rather than letting it help heat your home. British Gas explains: “Use the oven to heat the house. Once dinner comes out of the oven, we all close the door again.
“But why waste that heat? Leave the oven door open and let the heat transfer slowly into your kitchen, it’ll help keep your house warm while you eat. And, naturally, keep the kids and pets away from the door.”
In another job that takes only seconds, the experts suggest that people close their curtains – an action that takes just a couple of seconds. It adds: “You won’t be surprised to learn that lots of warmth escapes from your home through the windows.
“If you’ve got curtains, close them before darkness hits or while you’re out of the house and keep that lovely heat where it should be – inside.”
You could also opt for a pair of thermal curtains, it suggests. Thermal curtains, also called insulated curtains, work by trapping heat in your home. Lined with additional layers and designed differently from your usual curtains, it’s a great way to keep the heat in and the cold out.
In its last piece of advice, the experts say that you should be setting your thermostat to around 18C to 21C. “It’s easy to turn the thermostat all the way up when it’s freezing cold, but what’s the ideal temperature for your home?”, it ponders.
Answering the question, it says: “Aim to set your main room thermostat somewhere between 18C and 21C. It’s also a good idea to set your thermostat to one temperature and then use a timer to turn it on and off when you need the heating most. That way you won’t waste excess energy from leaving the heating on too high, for too long.
Struggling with your energy bills?
If you’re looking for support, you can look at getting help with your energy bills here. For free, independent, practical energy advice, contact Citizens Advice. You can also speak to them directly on 0808 223 1133 or 0808 223 1144 for Welsh speakers.
British Gas recommends talking to StepChange Debt Charity. These are debt experts who offer free, confidential advice and practical ways to manage debt. You can call them on 0800 138 1111.
It also suggests The British Gas Energy Trust. This “is an independent charity whose mission is to help people tackle energy debt through grants, expert guidance and hands-on support. Funded by us, the charity also runs local community projects offering free energy and money advice for everyone.”
