Martin Lewis's Simple 1°C Rule Could Save British Families £90 on Energy Bills
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 strategy that could deliver genuine savings when every penny counts.
With Ofgem's price cap increases hammering household budgets in October and another rise looming next month, the Money Saving Expert founder's practical advice offers a lifeline to families struggling with utility bills that have spiralled beyond reasonable levels.
The One Degree Challenge That Works
Lewis's straightforward recommendation, which he calls the "one degree challenge," involves simply reducing your thermostat setting by a single degree Celsius. This modest adjustment could slash heating bills by approximately 10 per cent, potentially saving the average British household around £90 annually.
Speaking on his ITV programme, Lewis explained the logic behind this time-tested approach: "The World Health Organisation says 18 degrees is fine for healthy adults. Younger, older, or ill, you might need more... 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 21C, try reducing to 20C - that could save you around 10 per cent on the heating bill," Lewis advised viewers, emphasising the substantial impact of this seemingly small change.
British Common Sense Approach to Energy Savings
The financial expert's advice reflects the kind of practical, no-nonsense approach that has served British households well through previous economic challenges. Rather than complex schemes or expensive upgrades, this solution requires nothing more than turning a dial.
Lewis also addressed a common mistake many make during cold snaps: "Who, when it gets cold, turns the thermostat up in the house? Look, your thermostat will get you up to the temperature you want. This is a panic reaction - 'it's cold, I'm going to turn it up more'. The thermostat dictates what the temperature is."
The Energy Saving Trust supports these findings, confirming that lowering the temperature by one degree could indeed save around £90 per year for a typical home.
WHO Guidelines Support Sensible Heating
The World Health Organisation recommends a minimum indoor temperature of 18°C for healthy adults in colder climates, particularly during winter months. For more vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, or those with health conditions, a minimum of 20°C is advised.
This guidance suggests that many British homes are heated well above necessary levels, presenting a clear opportunity for savings without compromising comfort or health.
As families across the nation continue to face unprecedented pressure from energy costs imposed by regulatory decisions and market failures, Lewis's simple rule offers a practical way to regain some control over household expenses while maintaining the warmth and comfort that every British family deserves.