A tip from a British Gas energy specialist suggests a clever way to keep your home warm without using your central heating. Energy engineer Jessica Rawstron recommends leaving your oven door open after cooking to utilize the residual heat escaping from the appliance. By letting the heat slowly transfer into your kitchen, you can maintain a cozy atmosphere while enjoying your meal. However, it is important to keep children and pets away from the open oven door to ensure safety.
In addition to this tip, British Gas advises homeowners to prepare for winter by sealing gaps around windows and doors to prevent draughts. It is also recommended to regularly bleed radiators and ensure that your boiler receives its annual service to maintain efficient heating.
As temperatures drop across the UK, yellow warnings for snow and ice have been issued in various regions. In Scotland, a yellow warning is in effect throughout Wednesday, while parts of England, including Sheffield, Peterborough, Bath, and Worcester, as well as much of Wales, will experience snowfall from Thursday evening until Friday midday.
With energy bills on the rise, households can expect to pay around £1,758 per year for gas and electricity if they are on a direct debit payment plan. The price cap sets limits on unit rates and standing charges but does not cap the total energy bill, which still depends on consumption. Customers not on fixed energy tariffs will fall under the price cap regulations.
For those paying through a pre-payment meter, the price cap has increased to £1,711 annually, while those on receipt of bills will face a yearly charge of £1,894. The price cap is reviewed every three months, with the next adjustment scheduled for April 2026.