24 October 2023 , 12:00
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The temperature has dropped, and winter is well on its way with clocks set to go back on Sunday 29 October. The likelihood is that you've already caved and turned the heating on, despite the high energy prices, but you may still be looking for other ways to save money.
Experts at BOXT have thankfully shared an invaluable piece of advice that could see you save around £100 throughout the winter - you just have to make one simple change, and it won't cost you a penny. They said that by turning your thermostat down just one degree will see you potentially reap the benefits.
They said: "Turn your thermostat down by 1°C. You can significantly reduce your energy usage by lowering the central heating temperature by just one degree. This small change could reduce your heating expenses by up to 10%, meaning that by lowering the thermostat by only one degree, you might save more than £100 a year on energy bills."
They also claimed that you "shouldn't even feel a difference" in how comfortable you feel due to the warmth, and it's also kinder to the planet to keep the temperature lower. BOXT shared that "If everyone in the UK turned their thermostat down by just 1 degree it would save as much carbon as would be produced by taking 7,937,379 return flights between London and New York."
They also revealed that the best times to put the heating on are "In the morning and during the day while at home. Setting your heating to come on just before you get up, and turning it off an hour before you leave your home or go to sleep is the best way to control your home temperature and save money."
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The experts added: "The ideal room temperature during the winter is between 18°C and 20°C. During winter, it can be tempting to crank up the thermostat. However, experimenting with different temperatures can both reduce energy bills and potentially lead to a better night's sleep. Instead of setting one temperature across the whole day, try switching between daytime and nighttime temperatures, as this may make you more comfortable at home and also reduce your energy usage."
They also recommended using insulation to ensure that no heat is being wasted. They said: "In addition to the wall, roof, and floor insulation keeping the heat in your home, insulating your water tank, pipes, and radiators is a quick and easy way to improve efficiency, saving energy and money. With options such as a hot water cylinder jacket, which you can fit yourself and costs around £15, you can quickly start making improvements."