Octopus Energy in the UK is suggesting a ‘4pm rule’ to households as temperatures drop and utility bills stay high. This rule, also endorsed by Money Saving Expert (MSE) founder Martin Lewis, aims to help retain heat and potentially reduce expenses.
Initially discussed on ITV’s The Martin Lewis Money Show, the ‘4pm rule’ remains relevant amidst the ongoing cost of living challenges in the UK. Despite being filmed in November 2022, the advice is still effective according to experts on the official MSE website.
The strategy involves implementing a specific routine daily to optimize home warmth without relying heavily on costly central heating. Octopus Energy explains on its website that by closing blinds or curtains before nightfall, households can retain more heat with less energy, resulting in up to a 17% decrease in heat loss.
Furthermore, closing curtains in front of external doors can prevent cold air from entering and help retain heat indoors. The energy supplier recommends keeping curtains open during sunny periods to benefit from free solar heat and closing them as the sun sets to maintain warmth and block cold air. Adding curtain liners during colder months can enhance insulation.
As daylight diminishes around 4pm on November 15, closing curtains at this time can help preserve indoor warmth, potentially delaying the need for heating. This advice aligns closely with Martin Lewis’ previous suggestion of using energy-efficient thermal curtains to retain heat, especially when lined with insulating materials like fleece.
For optimal heat retention, thermal-lined curtains made of dense fabrics such as velvet or wool are recommended. Fabrics with a high thread count, like velvet, suede, or wool blends, are more effective in trapping heat compared to lighter materials such as silk or linen.
The effectiveness of thermal curtains lies in their special lining, usually featuring multiple layers of fabric, sometimes with foam or a rubbery back to trap air and slow down heat loss. Properly fitting curtains that extend past the window frame and reach the floor help create a tight seal, preventing cold drafts. Installing a pelmet or valance at the top of the curtain rod can further enhance insulation by blocking airflow over the top.
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