Money expert Martin Lewis has urged Brits to consider cheap methods for staying warm this winter, with some gadgets costing less than one pence per hour to run. The Money Saving Expert (MSE) website, which Lewis founded, issued the advice following a two per cent tariff rise on October 1 last year, which it said made central heating 'even more unaffordable' for many families.
Lewis said the guide was published due to 'an overflowing email bag of desperation from people who can't afford their energy bills'. He added: 'So don't see this as an 'MSE or Martin says you should do this'. It's more that we're trying to help provide some options and information for those that may need to drastically cut down on energy usage due to financial desperation.'
Among the most cost-effective options are USB-rechargeable items. USB-powered gloves, heated insoles and hand warmers all cost under 1p per hour to run, with weekly costs of around 4p based on five hours of daily charging. An electric gilet with battery pack also costs under 1p per hour and 4p weekly, though it has a higher initial price of £50.
Traditional alternatives were also analysed. A microwaveable wheat bag costs under 1p per hour but only retains heat for 20-40 minutes. A standard hot water bottle costs about 4p per hour or 69p weekly when used twice daily. Reusable hand warmers heated on a gas hob cost under 1p per hour, or 49p weekly.
For mains-powered items, an electric heat pad costs 2p per hour and 92p weekly, while electric footwarmers and electric blankets have similar running costs but are priced at £25 and £35 respectively. MSE advised against buying second-hand electric blankets due to fire safety concerns.
