British Gas is advising households across England to take immediate action to conserve heat as a significant snow storm sweeps across the country this week.
Weather Warnings and Urgent Advice
The Met Office has issued amber and yellow weather warnings for Tuesday, 5th January 2026, predicting disruptive snowfall and freezing temperatures. In response, the energy supplier is urging customers to implement simple, effective measures to keep their homes warm and manage costs.
A key recommendation is for people to close their curtains before dusk or when they are out of the house. "You won't be surprised to learn that lots of warmth escapes from your home through the windows," stated British Gas. "If you've got curtains, close them... and keep that lovely heat where it should be - inside." The company further suggested investing in thermal curtains for even greater efficiency.
Optimising Your Heating Settings
With the temptation to crank up the thermostat, British Gas, which competes with firms like OVO, EDF, EON, and Octopus, provided clear guidance on ideal temperatures. The advice is to set your main room thermostat between 18°C and 21°C.
It is also recommended to set the thermostat to a constant temperature and use a timer to control when the heating is active, preventing energy waste from leaving it on too high for extended periods. The use of smart thermostats, such as the Hive Thermostat, was highlighted as a way to easily manage heating remotely via a phone or tablet.
Long-Term Solutions for Energy Savings
Beyond immediate winter tips, British Gas emphasised the link between energy efficiency and lower bills. To help homeowners navigate improvements, they promote their 'Home Health Check' service.
"Better energy efficiency can mean lower energy bills – but when it comes to making your home greener, it can be confusing knowing where to start," a spokesperson said. This service involves an expert visiting a home to conduct a detailed assessment using thermal imagery, providing tailored recommendations and a report to help reduce both carbon footprint and energy costs.
As the cold snap continues, these practical steps from Britain's leading energy supplier aim to help households stay warm, save money, and navigate the challenging weather conditions safely.
