Key Highlights
- Octopus Energy endorses a ‘4pm rule’ to reduce energy bills and keep homes warmer.
- The advice mirrors similar tips previously given by Money Saving Expert (MSE) founder Martin Lewis.
- Closing curtains before it gets dark can help retain 17% more heat in the home, according to Octopus Energy.
Octopus Energy Backs ‘4pm Rule’ for Cost Savings and Warmth
In a bid to help UK households manage soaring utility bills during colder months, energy provider Octopus Energy is recommending a simple yet effective strategy: the so-called ‘4pm rule’. This advice has been echoed by Money Saving Expert (MSE) founder Martin Lewis in previous years, highlighting its relevance amid ongoing cost-of-living crises.
Understanding the 4pm Rule
The method involves adjusting curtains and blinds at specific times of day to maximize natural heat retention. According to Octopus Energy’s website, this can lead to a significant reduction in energy usage, potentially lowering bills by as much as 17%.
Implementing the Strategy
To employ the ‘4pm rule’ effectively:
- Open curtains and blinds during the day when sunlight is available to allow warmth into your home.
- Closing these window coverings before it gets dark can help retain heat and minimize reliance on expensive central heating systems.
Experts also suggest using curtain liners or even a shower curtain in colder months to add an extra layer of insulation, further enhancing the effectiveness of this strategy.
Additional Tips for Insulation
In addition to following the ‘4pm rule’, Octopus Energy advises several other measures to improve home insulation:
- Ensure curtains and blinds fit properly over windows, hanging a few inches past the edges of the frame and reaching the floor.
- Install pelmets or valances at the top of curtain rods to create an air seal and prevent heat from escaping through gaps.
The company emphasizes that these simple steps can make a significant difference in maintaining home warmth without excessive energy consumption. As Martin Lewis noted on ITV’s The Martin Lewis Money Show, “Use tactical curtains. When the sun is shining, it’s letting light and heat into the house, so you want the curtains open. When it gets dark, it’s not, so you want to keep the heat in by closing the curtains.”
With utility costs remaining a major concern for UK homeowners, such practical advice from both Octopus Energy and Martin Lewis can provide much-needed relief on monthly bills while helping to reduce overall carbon footprints.
