Electric blanket running costs revealed

Electric blankets are among the most economical ways to stay warm as the UK faces rising energy costs, consumer organisation Which? has found. Testing by the organisation indicates that these devices typically cost between 2p and 8p per hour to operate when on their highest setting.

Safety Advice for Electric Blankets

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While electric blankets offer a cost-effective heating solution, the London Fire Brigade has issued safety guidance. They recommend that users unplug their electric blankets before getting into bed, unless the blanket is equipped with a thermostat control. Additionally, the fire service advises against using a hot water bottle concurrently with an electric blanket and suggests replacing blankets every 10 years.

Maximising Home Warmth

Beyond electric blankets, experts suggest various methods to retain heat in homes. Wearing multiple thin layers of clothing can trap body heat more effectively than a single thick garment. Using thicker duvets, such as those with a 10.5 tog rating or higher, is also recommended as the weather cools. Some individuals place a blanket beneath their mattress to mitigate draughts or position blankets above the mattress and under the bedsheet.

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Maximising natural light by opening curtains during sunny periods allows sunlight to warm rooms, with curtains then closed at sunset to retain heat. Leaving oven doors ajar after use can also release residual warmth into the kitchen, though caution is advised if young children are present. Soft furnishings like rugs and curtains can further improve insulation. For those with fireplaces, lighting a fire can be more economical than heating an entire house, although the cost of logs is a consideration.

Addressing draughts is another key strategy. Draught excluders can be placed around door frames, with improvised solutions like towels or stuffed tights being effective. Sealing gaps around windows and doors can prevent heat escape. Sophie Burr from National Energy Action suggests secondary glazing or thermal curtains for single-glazed windows, or a more budget-friendly option of applying bubble wrap to windows.

Wise Use of Central Heating

While not recommending the complete absence of heating due to potential health issues and the risk of frozen pipes, experts advise using central heating judiciously. This includes checking for off-peak energy tariffs, bleeding radiators to ensure efficiency, and adjusting heating incrementally. Moving furniture away from radiators allows heat to circulate freely. Radiator foil, either purchased or homemade, can be used to reflect heat back into a room, mitigating the approximately 35% of heat lost through walls, as noted by National Energy Action.

Some households opt to heat only occupied rooms or maintain a low background heat level when away to prevent issues like mould or burst pipes. Radiator valves with a snowflake symbol indicate a frost protection setting, which activates to prevent pipes from freezing in very cold conditions. Lowering the flow temperature of combi boilers, often done during a service, can also reduce energy consumption.