British Gas is urging households to close their curtains before 5pm in October to reduce heat loss and keep homes warmer without relying on central heating. The advice comes as energy bills have risen by 4% since the start of October, according to Ofgem, prompting many to seek cheaper ways to stay warm.
Why closing curtains helps
Jessica Rawstron, smart energy engineer at British Gas, says that changing when you close your curtains or blinds can make a home feel warmer instantly, without touching the thermostat. Windows are "one of the most common areas for heat loss" as the weather gets colder, particularly in homes with older glazing.
Energy experts at Your NRG explained, "Blinds reduce heat loss by 13 to 14%; curtains can cut heat loss by 15 to 17%." Many households only shut their curtains or blinds at bedtime, meaning they could be leaking heat during the day without realising it.
Timing and thermal options
As the clocks go back, it gets dark at around 5pm, so Rawstron advises closing window dressings before that time. She said, "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."
The next day, opening curtains as soon as the sun is up lets natural heat in, reducing the need for central heating. Rawstron also recommends thermal curtains, which Your NRG noted can "improve insulation by up to 25%" when properly installed.
DIY insulation solutions
For those on a tighter budget, energy efficiency experts at Electric Radiators Direct suggest safety pinning spare blankets or bath towels to the back of existing curtains to "add an extra layer of insulation". They instructed, "Close them at night but open them during the day to let in sunlight and natural heat."
