Major energy suppliers Octopus Energy and EDF have issued urgent advice to UK households, urging them to seal their homes against draughts this winter. The warning comes as families prepare for Christmas amidst ongoing cost of living concerns.
The Cost of Unsealed Homes
The companies highlighted that continuous draughts can quickly undermine heating systems, effectively wasting energy and money. Octopus Energy explained that identifying and blocking gaps around doors, windows and other openings helps trap warmth inside, making household gas expenditure more effective.
According to Octopus, professional draught-proofing services can cost several hundred pounds, but there are numerous cost-effective alternatives. Households can detect draughts using the back of their hand or thermal cameras, and create their own draught excluders using old fabric scraps at minimal expense.
Substantial Savings Potential
The potential financial benefits are significant. Average annual savings reach approximately £80 per household through proper draught-proofing measures. EDF specifically noted that draught-proofing your chimney alone could save around £60 yearly.
Octopus shared a valuable tip: Closing blinds or curtains before darkness falls can reduce heat loss by up to 17%, helping retain warmth with less energy consumption.
Expert-Backed Recommendations
Both companies emphasised that their advice comes from rigorous research and testing. Octopus revealed their tips were developed by teams of scientists, engineers and heat specialists, with effectiveness confirmed by feedback from over 250,000 customers.
These strategies were part of last winter's Winter Workout challenge, which saved participants over £5 million collectively on their energy bills. The average customer who participated achieved a 12% reduction in their energy costs.
EDF has compiled comprehensive energy-saving guidance to help families reduce consumption throughout their homes, offering room-by-room advice for maximum efficiency during the colder months.
