Martin Lewis's Simple 1°C Thermostat Rule Could Save British Households £90 Per Year

As hardworking British families continue to face the relentless squeeze of soaring energy costs, trusted financial expert Martin Lewis has reminded households of a remarkably simple method to reduce their heating bills by approximately 10 per cent.

With Ofgem's price cap increases hitting households hard in October, and another rise looming next month, Lewis's practical advice offers much-needed relief for families struggling with utility costs that have spiralled out of control under successive government policies.

The One Degree Challenge

Speaking on his ITV programme, the Money Saving Expert founder urged viewers to embrace what he calls the "one degree challenge" - a straightforward adjustment that could deliver substantial savings without compromising household comfort.

"The World Health Organisation says 18 degrees is fine for healthy adults," Lewis explained. "Most of you know it's not for me to tell you what to do, but I'd like you to try reducing one degree. Say you're at 21°C, try reducing to 20°C - that could save you around 10 per cent on the heating bill."

The financial guru's reasoning is compelling: "If your heating is only kicking in at 15 degrees, and you're heating to 21°C, only heating to 20°C is actually a really significant saving. Don't think 0°C to 20°C, think 15°C to 20°C."

Common Thermostat Mistakes

Lewis also addressed a widespread misconception that costs British households dearly. "Who, when it gets cold, turns the thermostat up in the house?" he asked. "This is a panic reaction - 'it's cold, I'm going to turn it up more'. The thermostat dictates what the temperature is. Don't turn it up, just wait for it to get to the heat."

This simple misunderstanding of how thermostats function has been costing families unnecessary money during our coldest months.

Proven Savings for British Households

The Energy Saving Trust validates Lewis's advice, confirming that lowering the temperature by just one degree could save approximately £90 per year for a typical British home - a significant sum for families already stretched by the cost-of-living crisis.

"Many have their thermostats set in the 20s," the Trust explains. "While cutting from 21°C to 20°C doesn't sound much, it may reduce your heating bill by £90 a year."

Health Guidelines Support the Approach

The World Health Organisation recommends a minimum indoor temperature of 18°C for healthy adults during winter months. For more vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, or those with health conditions, a minimum of 20°C is advised.

This means Lewis's suggestion to reduce from 21°C to 20°C remains well within safe and comfortable parameters for most British households, whilst delivering meaningful financial relief.

As energy costs continue to burden family budgets across the nation, such practical, time-tested advice from trusted experts like Martin Lewis provides a lifeline for households seeking to regain control over their utility expenses.