A tip from a British Gas energy specialist suggests a clever way to heat your home without relying on your central heating system. Energy engineer Jessica Rawstron recommends leaving the oven door open after cooking to utilize the residual heat escaping from the appliance.

According to Jessica, instead of closing the oven door once your meal is ready, you can leave it open to allow the heat to slowly warm up your kitchen, helping to maintain a cozy atmosphere while you enjoy your meal. She also advises caution, reminding to keep children and pets away from the open oven door.

In addition to this tip, British Gas provides various winter preparation suggestions, such as sealing gaps around windows and doors to prevent draughts. It is also essential to regularly bleed your radiators and ensure your boiler receives its annual service to ensure efficient heating.

As parts of the UK face yellow warnings for snow and ice due to plummeting temperatures, households are expected to increase their heating usage, especially as energy bills continue to rise. The average annual cost for gas and electricity for households paying via direct debit has now reached £1,758, following the price cap regulations that limit unit rates and standing charges.

The price cap does not cap the total energy bill, as it depends on the actual consumption of gas and electricity. Customers not on fixed tariffs fall under the price cap regulations. For those using pre-payment meters, the annual cap is set at £1,711, while bill-payment customers can expect to pay around £1,894 annually.

The price cap is subject to quarterly updates, with the next revision expected in April 2026. It is crucial for consumers to monitor their energy usage and seek energy-saving tips to manage their bills effectively.