Millions of households across the UK are being advised on a remarkably cost-effective method to stay warm this winter, potentially transforming how they manage their energy consumption. Customers of major energy suppliers including British Gas, EDF, EON, Ovo, and Octopus can significantly reduce their heating bills by investing in a simple household item.
The 2p Per Hour Warmth Solution
The secret lies in the humble electric blanket. According to expert analysis, this common comfort item presents a huge saving compared to traditional heating methods. Sam Morris, a heating expert at the consumer champion Which?, has crunched the numbers, providing clear and compelling evidence for the switch.
"One of the cheapest ways we've found to keep yourself cosy is to wrap up in an electric blanket," Morris stated. "Our tests have found they typically cost between 2p to 6p an hour to run on their highest setting. This is dramatically cheaper than the average fan heater, making it an intelligent choice for budget-conscious consumers."
Substantial Annual Savings Revealed
The long-term financial benefit of using an electric blanket is striking. Morris provided a detailed breakdown: if you use an electric blanket for three hours every night for half the year (approximately 182 days), the total cost is minimal.
The cheapest-to-run options would only cost about £11 in total, offering incredible value. Even the most expensive blankets to run from their research would only amount to around £33 for the same period, still representing a significant saving over central heating or other electric heaters.
Morris also highlighted a simple tip for further reducing costs. "You can reduce the cost further by setting the blanket to a lower setting, or turning it off sooner. The blanket will still remain warm for a couple of hours after turning the power off, so you feel the benefit without the cost ticking up."
Safety First: How to Use Your Blanket Correctly
With the rise in popularity of electric blankets, safety guidance is paramount. Bed experts at Silentnight have issued clear instructions for safe usage. They recommend spreading the blanket over the bed and ensuring any wires or controls are clear of your neck area.
"Silentnight electric blankets are designed with the controls at the head of the bed safely out of the way," a spokesperson noted, adding that designs may vary between manufacturers. The process involves plugging the cord into the blanket and then into the wall, before switching the controller to your preferred setting.
Safety is a critical consideration. "Electric blankets are very safe to use with the correct care and guidance," Silentnight confirmed. They strongly advise purchasing a brand-new blanket rather than a second-hand one and to always check that the product includes overheating protection.
Perhaps the most crucial advice concerns overnight use. "Electric blankets should never be left unattended when turned on but, we know it’s easy to doze off when snuggled under one," the experts acknowledged. They do not recommend sleeping with an electric blanket on or leaving it heated all night unless it has a thermostatic control or timer which will automatically turn it off. Always read the manufacturer's instructions thoroughly to prevent any hazards.
As energy prices remain a primary concern for families, this practical advice offers a tangible way to stay warm without facing exorbitant costs, making the winter months more comfortable and affordable.
