Health experts are warning UK residents against one money-saving heating 'mistake' as households face higher energy bills this autumn and winter, with older people and those with health conditions particularly at risk.
The energy price cap rose by 4% on October 1, meaning a typical household paying by Direct Debit now faces an annual bill of £1,723. This is £60 more than under the previous cap if that level of usage were maintained for a year.
The increase comes as temperatures begin to fall and households start turning their heating back on, with many looking for ways to keep costs down. But health experts warn that vulnerable people should think carefully before simply switching the heating off.
GP warning on cold homes
A GP is warning older people and those with long-term health conditions against trying to save money by simply switching their heating off or allowing their homes to become too cold. The NHS says keeping warm during winter can help prevent serious health problems, including heart attacks, strokes and pneumonia. It recommends keeping regularly used rooms at around 18°C or above where possible, particularly for people with health conditions.
Dr Asiya Maula, private GP at The Health Suite, said: "When money is tight, turning the heating down can feel like an obvious way to save, but for some people a cold home can have real health consequences. This is particularly important for older people and anyone living with a heart, lung or other long-term condition. The aim is not to heat every room all day, but to avoid allowing the rooms you regularly use to become uncomfortably cold."
Health problems triggered by cold
Cold temperatures can put additional stress on the body. It may be particularly difficult for people already living with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions.
Dr Maula said: "Someone who already has asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), heart disease or another chronic condition may be more vulnerable to the effects of the cold. If you notice that you are constantly cold, unusually tired, becoming breathless or struggling to manage a condition that is normally stable, do not simply assume it is because of the weather."
Simple heating tricks to save money
People do not necessarily need to keep the whole house heated continuously, Dr Maula says. Closing doors to unused rooms, keeping curtains closed after dark, blocking draughts and making sure windows and doors are properly sealed can help retain heat.
Dr Maula said: "Think about where you actually spend your time. Prioritising the bedroom and living space is more sensible than paying to heat an empty spare room."
Warm clothing, blankets and hot meals can help too. But they should complement - not necessarily replace - adequate heating for somebody who is vulnerable to the cold.
Support available for households
Households struggling with bills should also check whether they are entitled to support. The Warm Home Discount provides a one-off £150 reduction on electricity bills for eligible households, with the scheme reopening in October 2026.
Dr Maula added: "If heating your home is becoming unaffordable, do not simply switch everything off and hope for the best. Check what financial help you may be entitled to and speak to your energy supplier if you are struggling to pay."
"For older relatives or neighbours, a quick phone call or visit can also make a difference. Someone may be quietly sitting in a cold home because they are worried about the cost of turning the heating on."
Anyone who develops significant breathlessness, chest pain, confusion, severe weakness or other serious symptoms should seek urgent medical advice rather than assuming they are simply cold.
