Financial guru Martin Lewis has issued urgent guidance for households battling to stay warm this winter without facing crippling energy bills. His Money Saving Expert (MSE) team has identified a range of keep-warm gadgets that can drastically cut down on energy usage, with some costing as little as one penny per hour to run.
The advice comes as a direct response to the financial desperation many are facing following a two per cent increase in energy prices on 1 October. The MSE website, founded by Lewis, stated that switching on the central heating has become "even more unaffordable" for a vast number of families.
Heating the Human, Not the Home
At the heart of the new guidance is the strategy of "heating the human not the home". Martin Lewis explained the motivation behind the guide, stating he wished it wasn't necessary. He was driven to act by his "overflowing email bag of desperation from people who can't afford their energy bills".
"So don't see this as an 'MSE or Martin says you should do this'," he clarified. "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."
The Cheapest Gadgets to Run
With this goal in mind, the MSE team compiled a detailed list of the most affordable warming products available. They emphasised that while they cannot vouch for which item keeps you the warmest, they have calculated which are the cheapest to operate.
Generally, USB-charged devices were found to be the most economical, though they are often smaller and heat only specific body parts. The initial purchase price is also a key factor for those on a tight budget.
The recommendations include several budget-friendly options:
- USB Gloves: Priced around £10, these cost less than 1p per hour (4p per week) to run.
- Heated Insoles: Also £10, with identical running costs of under 1p per hour.
- USB Hand Warmers: Retail for £15 and cost less than 1p per hour to use.
- Electric Gilet: A £50 investment including a battery pack, running for under 1p per hour.
Traditional and Mains-Powered Warmers
The analysis also extended to more conventional products. A microwaveable wheat bag, costing approximately £4, requires just 60 seconds in the microwave and costs under 1p per hour, though its warmth only lasts 20-40 minutes.
The classic hot water bottle (1.5 litre), with an average price of £5.50, costs roughly 4p for one hour or 69p for a week if used twice daily.
For mains-powered options, an electric heat pad (£20) costs 2p per hour, while electric footwarmers (£25) and electric blankets (£35) have similar running costs. The team issued a crucial safety note, warning that fire brigades generally advise against buying second-hand electric blankets.
Simple, No-Cost Strategies
Beyond gadgets, MSE highlighted several free methods to retain body heat. These essential tips include:
- Layering clothes to trap warmth effectively.
- Eating regularly and ensuring at least one hot meal a day.
- Keeping feet warm with thick rugs and slippers.
- Choosing the right socks and changing them during the day if they become damp.
- Staying active to generate your own body heat.
For anyone struggling to pay their energy bills and in need of further advice, the Money Saving Expert website offers a comprehensive resource of support and information.
