British Gas, Octopus, E.On and OVO customers urged to consider 'small adjustments' which could save over £100 a year on bills

By implementing this small change, around 17 million UK households could see £2billion in national savings.

As winter temperatures plummet, finding the right balance between comfort and cost-efficiency has become crucial for British homeowners looking to manage their energy bills effectively.

The savings come at a particularly relevant time, as energy prices continue to fluctuate and households seek ways to reduce their utility costs.

Gordon Wallis, boiler expert from Your NRG explained that lowering the thermostat by just one degree could lead to substantial savings.

He said: "Small adjustments can lead to significant savings. By simply lowering your thermostat by one degree, households could save over £100 annually."

Wallis explained that maintaining the right temperature is crucial for both cost savings and home protection during winter months.

He continued: "Keep your home's thermostat over 14 degrees Celsius to prevent mould growth - a little higher in tiled room.

"Anything below this threshold will encourage dampness to develop in your house, impacting your property and your well-being."

For optimal comfort and energy efficiency, Wallis recommends keeping room temperatures between 18 and 20 degrees Celsius.

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Proper temperature management is particularly vital in preventing costly issues like damp and mould, which can affect both property value and resident health.

Wallis shared his four key tips to protect one's home from winter's chill:

1. Maintain adequate heating: Keep the heating on, even at a minimum of 10°C, to prevent frozen pipes. Smart thermostats can help remotely monitor and adjust the temperature.
2. Insulate exposed pipes: Insulate pipes in unheated areas like basements or garages to protect them from freezing, which is an affordable and effective solution.
3. Turn off the mains water supply: If away for a long period, turn off the water supply and release residual water from pipes to prevent leaks or damage from frozen pipes.
4. Check boiler pressure and settings: Ensure the boiler pressure is within the recommended range (1-1.5 bar), and activate frost protection mode if available to automatically keep the home heated in extreme cold.

The latest energy market analysis suggests further price increases on the horizon for UK households.

According to Cornwall Insight, the energy price cap is predicted to rise by one per cent in April 2025, potentially reaching £1,762 for typical dual-fuel customers.

This follows a confirmed one per cent increase set for January 2024, which will see the cap rise to £1,738.

However, consumers can take active steps to reduce their energy costs.

Ben Gallizzi, energy expert at Uswitch.com said: "There are now a range of fixed deals available that are significantly cheaper than the predicted price cap for January."

The average household could save up to £112 per year by switching to a 12-month fixed deal.

Households concerned about energy bills are encouraged to check their eligibility for energy support and contact their suppliers for potential assistance.