Martin Lewis has recommended a simple thermostat adjustment that could cut heating bills by around 10% for a typical household. The money-saving expert suggests reducing the thermostat by just one degree, a change he describes as "one of the easiest" ways to save money on energy costs.
With colder weather prompting more UK households to turn on their central heating, the tip comes as many look to manage soaring energy expenses. The Energy Saving Trust estimates that lowering the temperature by a single degree could reduce annual heating costs by approximately 10% for a typical household.
The One Degree Challenge
Speaking on The Martin Lewis Money Show Live, Lewis said: "This is a big one. Take my one degree challenge. The World Health Organisation says 18C is fine for adults. Younger, older or ill might need more."
He added: "It is not for me to tell you what to do, but I would like you to try reducing one degree. That could save you around 10% on your heating bill."
The Money Saving Expert blog explained that many households keep thermostats set in the 20s, and cutting from, say, 21°C to 20°C should reduce the heating bill. As a "way to think of it" concept, the blog noted that if a home was already at 13°C, dropping the difference between that and the warmed temperature by one degree makes up a big chunk of that difference.
Recommended Home Temperatures
For fit and healthy adults, the World Health Organisation recommends that 18C is sufficient. Marginally warmer temperatures are required for young children and elderly people.
The Money Saving Expert blog also advised that there is no need to turn up the temperature when it is colder outside, as the thermostat's job is to heat the home to the set temperature, and it may simply take longer in colder weather.
Heating All Day or Only When Needed
The Energy Saving Trust advises that keeping heating running throughout the day uses more fuel, causing increased heat loss and higher bills. It recommends warming the home only when necessary rather than paying to heat it while out, describing this approach as the most effective way to conserve energy and reduce expenditure.
