As temperatures plummet across the UK this January, experts at British Gas are sharing simple tips that could help households save on their energy bills. The first recommendation is straightforward – make better use of your oven.
“Once dinner comes out of the oven, don’t let that heat go to waste,” advises British Gas. “Leave the oven door open and let the warmth slowly transfer into your kitchen. This can help keep your home cosy while you eat, just be sure to keep children and pets away from the hot oven door.”
Another quick two-second task is to close your curtains. “A lot of warmth escapes through windows, so close your curtains before darkness falls or when you’re out of the house to retain that precious heat inside,” the experts suggest. Investing in thermal or insulated curtains is an excellent way to further trap heat and keep the cold at bay.
British Gas also recommends setting your thermostat between 18°C and 21°C as the ideal temperature range. “It’s best to pick one temperature and use a timer to turn the heating on and off when you need it most,” they explain. “This prevents wasting energy by leaving the heating on too high for too long.”
For those struggling with energy bills, the energy provider advises exploring options for getting help. “Consider reaching out to Citizens Advice for free, independent advice, or contact debt specialists like StepChange and the British Gas Energy Trust for guidance and practical solutions,” they say.
With these simple yet effective hacks, households across the UK can look forward to staying cosy and saving on their energy costs this winter.