As millions of UK households grapple with soaring energy costs this winter, a simple piece of advice from British Gas could offer significant relief. The energy supplier is urging customers to adopt a 'four-minute rule' in the shower, a move it claims could save up to £70 a year on bills.
The Power of a Shorter Shower
With the energy regulator Ofgem implementing price cap increases—including a recent 0.2% rise following a previous 2% hike—finding ways to cut consumption is critical. British Gas points out that while many people spend up to ten minutes showering, reducing this to just four minutes can dramatically slash energy use. The company's online guidance states this change alone could save households up to £70 annually.
This advice is echoed by the Energy Saving Trust, which estimates a slightly lower but still substantial saving of around £45 per year for most homes by capping showers at four minutes. The Trust also highlights a crucial environmental benefit: this simple act could conserve approximately 17,000 litres of water per household each year.
"Shortening the time you spend in the shower reduces the volume of water going down the drain, while also saving money on the energy needed to heat it," explains the Energy Saving Trust. For homes in Northern Ireland, the Mirror reports that similar potential savings of £45 are achievable.
Beyond the Bathroom: Draught-Proofing Your Home
Reducing shower time is just the beginning. Both British Gas and the Energy Saving Trust provide a wealth of further recommendations to help households retain heat and reduce energy expenditure. A primary focus is on draught-proofing—sealing gaps around windows, doors, and chimneys to prevent expensive warmth from escaping.
"To reduce heat loss, draught-proof your home, and during colder winter months close your blinds and curtains to keep the heat inside," advises British Gas. Ignoring these draughty spots often leads to constantly turning up the thermostat, driving bills higher.
Using Thermal Cameras to Spot Heat Loss
Identifying where heat is escaping can be made easier with thermal imaging technology. These cameras visually display surface temperatures, highlighting problem areas in red (hot) and blue (cold). Tackling common culprits like windows, doors, and skirting boards can help maintain a warmer home for longer, reducing reliance on heating systems.
Many local councils offer these cameras for free loan. British Gas provides thermal imaging checks for £99 for its customers. Meanwhile, Octopus Energy had run a free borrowing scheme for its customers, which is currently paused. The company stated it has loaned cameras to nearly 5,000 customers in recent years to help them identify practical ways to save heat.
"We genuinely want to help our customers be more energy efficient. It's simply the right thing to do, not only because it keeps your bills low, but because it’s better for the environment," said Octopus Energy. For Winter 2025, they prioritised loans for those most in need.
Households with more flexible budgets can opt for a professional thermal survey, costing roughly £300 for smaller properties and up to £750 for larger homes. Consumer champion Which? recommends using its Home Energy Planning Service to find suitable options.
With energy bills remaining at record highs, implementing these practical steps—from shorter showers to thorough draught-proofing—can provide much-needed financial relief. For more detailed guidance, households are encouraged to visit the websites of the Energy Saving Trust, British Gas, and Octopus Energy.
