British families facing another winter of soaring energy costs have been handed a surprising lifeline - and it costs less than a takeaway coffee. Energy experts are urging households to invest in a simple £1.99 draught excluder that could slash heating bills by hundreds of pounds.
The Simple Hack That Makes a Big Difference
With energy prices remaining stubbornly high despite recent slight reductions, the focus has shifted to practical, affordable solutions that deliver real savings. The humble draught excluder, often overlooked in favour of more expensive solutions, has emerged as an unexpected hero in the battle against energy waste.
"People are often surprised at how much heat escapes through gaps under doors," explains energy efficiency specialist Sarah Wilkinson. "A simple draught excluder can prevent warm air from escaping and cold air from entering, significantly reducing the need to constantly reheat your home."
Why This Winter Demands Action
Despite the energy price cap falling to £1,568 for the average household in July, bills remain substantially higher than pre-crisis levels. The National Energy Action charity warns that millions still struggle to afford adequate heating, making cost-effective solutions more valuable than ever.
The mathematics are compelling: A typical draught excluder costing around £2 could pay for itself within days by reducing heat loss. When combined with other simple measures like radiator reflector panels and strategic curtain usage, households could see substantial reductions in their quarterly bills.
Additional Energy-Saving Tips That Cost Little or Nothing
- Time your heating: Use programmable thermostats to heat your home only when needed
- Bleed radiators: Ensure they're working at maximum efficiency
- Close curtains at dusk: Create an additional insulation layer
- Move furniture away from radiators: Allow heat to circulate freely
- Use your oven wisely: Leave the door open after cooking to spread warmth
A Nationwide Push for Energy Efficiency
The campaign comes as the government continues its broader energy efficiency drive, though many households are seeking immediate, affordable solutions they can implement themselves. Consumer groups emphasise that while larger investments like insulation and new boilers deliver savings, small changes can make a significant difference, especially for those on tight budgets.
"We're not talking about expensive renovations here," adds Wilkinson. "This is about smart, simple interventions that anyone can afford. That £2 draught excluder might seem insignificant, but when you consider the cumulative effect of heat loss throughout winter, the savings become very real."
As temperatures begin to drop, the message to households is clear: sometimes the simplest solutions are the most effective. With a small investment and minimal effort, families across the UK could enjoy a warmer home and lighter energy bills this winter.
