Simple curtain tip and other measures can cut UK home heating costs

Octopus Energy is urging UK residents to improve home energy efficiency by closing heavy curtains at night, creating a still-air layer that reduces window heat loss. The advice stresses keeping curtains clear of radiators to avoid obstructing heat distribution. Additional recommendations include tightening loft insulation, sealing gaps around windows and doors, and ensuring radiators are bled and unobstructed.

Homeowners with gas boilers are told to lower the flow temperature to between 55 °C and 60 °C, which can trim annual bills. The firm also warns against using thermostats as on/off switches, suggesting a steady setting of 18-21 °C instead. Martin Lewis adds that a cheap fleece blanket can serve as an effective liner for existing curtains, provided fire-safety guidelines are followed.