Martin Lewis shares 'incredible' 2p tip to keep warm without turning the heating on
The financial guru has shared a cheap way that UK households can keep warm this winter
by Steven White · ChronicleLiveUK households have been given a lifeline to stay warm this winter without the financial strain, thanks to a tip from money-saving expert Martin Lewis.
In the wake of energy bills soaring by as much as 10 percent at the beginning of the month following Ofgem's energy price cap rise from £1,568 to £1,717 annually, many are bracing for tough times ahead with heating costs as the chillier weather approaches.
However, Lewis has provided a budget-friendly alternative on his MoneySavingExpert (MSE) website. An update from last week on the site revealed several strategies to reduce energy consumption while maintaining warmth.
Lewis opened with a heartfelt message: "This is a guide I really wish we needn't be publishing," but he acknowledged that it offers "some options and information for those that may need to drastically cut down on energy usage due to financial desperation."
The MSE post then highlighted that using a single heated blanket could be a cost-effective measure, running at just 2p an hour instead of cranking up the thermostat. "It's also worth factoring in the initial cost, if you don't already own one of the items below," the site advised.
Other similarly economical suggestions included electric heat pads and electric footwarmers, each costing the same per hour. The advice concluded with a cautionary note: "Of course, the cheapest option may not be the best quality. Do your own research, read reviews before buying and check safety advice before using any of the options.", reports the Mirror.
The site revealed that generally, devices that can be charged with a USB tend to be the most cost-effective. "There are lots of options out there – we can't vouch for which will keep you warmest, but we have tried to work out which is cheapest to run. Generally we found it was those which could be charged via USB, but these items tend to be smaller, and may only warm part of your body (such as hands or feet)," it explained.
Some people were clearly impressed by Martin's tips, as one commented on the site: "I experienced the delight of an electric blanket for the first time. It saved me a lot on heating costs and there is nothing quite like getting into a toasty warm bed in a chilly room."
Another added: "A heating pad makes a great hot water bottle in bed. When I wake up with cold feet I just switch it on and then can go back to sleep with warm feet. Much better than getting up into an unheated house in the middle of the night to fill a hot water bottle."
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