With temperatures dropping this November, Irish households are being encouraged to try a simple energy saving tip to keep homes warmer and potentially cut costs.
With heating bills rising, simple changes at home may help Irish households keep in the heat this November (file photo)(Image: Getty)
Ireland’s temperatures have plunged in recent days, with daytime highs struggling to reach double figures and overnight lows dipping as low as -3C. Frost, icy patches and even snow have become common sights across much of the country, and the bitter weather isn’t over yet.
Met Eireann has issued a Status Yellow fog warning for 11 counties tomorrow morning, explaining that there will be “dense fog in some parts”, which could lead to “poor visibility and difficult driving conditions”.
With energy bills continuing to climb, Irish households are looking for simple ways to keep their homes warm while cutting costs this November. One method gaining attention is the ‘4pm rule’, recommended by Octopus Energy as the weather turns colder.
The rule has also been endorsed by Money Saving Expert founder Martin Lewis, who says it can help retain heat in homes and potentially lower bills. While he first discussed the tip on ITV’s The Martin Lewis Money Show a few years ago, his team confirms on the MSE website that “the tips still work”, despite the segment being filmed in November 2022.
The method is straightforward. Octopus Energy explains: “You’ll keep more heat in your home with less energy if you pull your blinds or curtains before it gets dark, up to 17% reduction in heat loss.”
They added: “Closing curtains in front of external doors can also help to block the cold out and trap the heat in.” The UK energy supplier advises: “Whilst the sun is shining, keep curtains/blinds open to let in the free heat from the sun. When the sun sets, close curtains/blinds to keep the heat in and the cold out. Curtain liners (or even a shower curtain) can be added during the colder months to thicken existing curtains.”
Tomorrow, November 22, the sun will set in Ireland at around 4.15pm. Experts suggest closing curtains at 4pm to trap heat inside, potentially allowing households to delay turning on central heating.
Martin Lewis has offered similar advice, encouraging his viewers to “use tactical curtains”. He explained: “When the sun is shining, it is letting light and heat into the house, so you want the curtains open. When it gets dark, it’s not, so you want to keep the heat in by closing the curtains.
Money Saving Expert Martin Lewis(Image: ITV)
“I know we all know that, but doing it rigorously can help insulate, especially if you line it with a fleece. There are lots of tips online on how to do that, and really cheaply-do it yourself.”
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