UK households could save more than £100 on their energy bills by simply reducing their thermostat by one degree, according to Citizens Advice. The advice body estimates that this adjustment can cut heating costs by around 10%.
A study by University College London, which analysed thermostat readings from 13,000 homes, found that maintaining temperatures between 22C and 18C could save the average household approximately £130. The research also revealed that for every square metre of a home, lowering the thermostat by 1C reduces gas usage by £1.10 and electricity by 40p on average.
Savings vary depending on factors such as home size, external temperature, and how long heating is on. The NHS advises keeping homes at a minimum of 18C to stay healthy, and recommends closing windows on cold nights to reduce health risks like chest infections.
To stay warm efficiently, the NHS suggests wearing multiple thin layers made from cotton, wool, or fleece fabrics. Properly fitting slippers and shoes with grip are also recommended to prevent slips while maintaining warmth.
Citizens Advice warns that those with health conditions that worsen in cold should not set their thermostat below 21C. Andy Ellis from Posh.co.uk added: “Winter can be a difficult time … by insulating rooms and sealing draughts, families can enjoy a warm comfortable home without the added heating bill to worry about.”
