They’ve shared a few tips for anyone wanting to lower their bills
People have been urged to try this first to see if it helps slash their bills(Image: Getty)
MoneySavingExpert (MSE) is urging households to install a valve costing around £10 – if they haven’t done so already. MSE, established by Martin Lewis, said: “Make sure you control which rooms you heat, so you’re not wasting cash heating empty rooms.
“You can simply go round the house and turn down the radiators in the rooms you don’t want to heat. Smart Energy GB says you could save around £40 a year turning radiator valves down to the midway point, in rooms you don’t use.”
The popular website explained that thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs) enable you to control the temperature in individual rooms – apart from the one with your main thermostat. When a room’s temperature exceeds the setting on its valve, the valve reduces or stops the flow of hot water to that radiator, reports the Express.
By fitting these valves and using them alongside your main thermostat, you can control your heating room by room and potentially cut your energy bills by approximately £40 each year. MSE warned there may be an upfront cost, as the valves are priced at roughly £10 each plus installation. It added: “Most thermostatic radiator valves have a frost prevention setting – usually a snowflake symbol.
“So when the valve is fully turned off, it’ll still let a small amount of hot water through to prevent pipes from freezing. If your radiators don’t have TRVs, be careful not to turn them off completely, as this could result in burst pipes in very cold weather.”
Create a daily habit
For those working in offices, make it part of your morning routine to adjust the controls before 9am – when most Brits start their working day. This approach is equally valuable for those working from home as it makes sure you are not wasting money on heating an empty room.
That said, if you work from your bedroom, try layering up to stay warm whilst keeping the thermostat a touch lower to reduce bills. MSE also warned those considering cutting back on heating.
It notes that “in some homes, colder rooms could lead to more condensation, which can increase the risk of mould. Also, be aware that fridges and freezers generally can’t function properly if room temperatures drop too low (typically below 10°C).”
Should I paint my radiator black?
If you’re thinking about painting your radiators black, you might want to reconsider. The money-saving experts concluded that “according to the Energy Saving Trust, this is simply a myth and not worth the time, money, or paint.”
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