Octopus Energy is suggesting a strategy known as the ‘4pm rule’ to households in the UK as temperatures drop and utility costs remain high. This tactic, also endorsed by Money Saving Expert’s founder Martin Lewis, aims to help retain warmth and potentially reduce expenses.
Initially introduced on ITV’s The Martin Lewis Money Show a few years ago, the advice remains pertinent amid the ongoing financial challenges faced by UK residents. The tips provided by Lewis and his team on the official MSE website, although recorded in November 2022, are still effective.
The ‘rule’ entails a specific daily routine to optimize home heating without excessive reliance on expensive central heating. Octopus Energy explains that by closing blinds or curtains before dusk, households can retain more heat, resulting in up to a 17% decrease in heat loss.
Additionally, sealing curtains in front of external doors can prevent cold air from entering and help trap heat indoors. The energy supplier advises keeping curtains open during sunny periods to benefit from free solar heat and closing them after sunset to maintain warmth. For added insulation during colder months, curtain liners or a shower curtain can be utilized to enhance existing curtains.
On November 15, with sunset times varying between approximately 3.45pm and 4.25pm depending on location, experts recommend closing curtains around 4pm to preserve warmth indoors, potentially delaying the need for heating.
This guidance aligns closely with Martin Lewis’ previous recommendation to use energy-efficient curtains, particularly thermal-lined options. By strategically opening curtains to welcome sunlight and closing them when darkness falls, households can effectively regulate indoor temperatures. Thermal-lined curtains made of dense materials like velvet or wool are ideal for insulation, as they prevent cold air from penetrating windows.
The effectiveness of thermal curtains lies in their specialized lining, which often includes multiple layers of fabric, sometimes with foam or a rubberized backing to trap air and slow down heat loss. To optimize results, it’s essential to ensure curtains are properly sized, extending beyond window frames and reaching the floor to create an effective seal. Adding a pelmet or valance at the curtain rod’s top can further prevent heat loss by blocking airflow over the top.
By following these practical tips, households can enhance energy efficiency, reduce heat loss, and potentially lower heating costs during colder months.
