Households across the UK can implement a practical energy-saving tip known as the **’4pm rule’**, endorsed by financial expert **Martin Lewis**, to stay warmer during the cold weather while potentially reducing energy bills. As temperatures drop, this straightforward advice becomes increasingly relevant, especially with the recent increase in energy costs following **Ofgem’s price cap** adjustment on **January 1, 2026**, which raised the average household energy bill from **£1,755 to £1,758**.
With **Met Office** warnings for snow and ice, every measure that can help mitigate heating costs is crucial. Lewis, the founder of **Money Saving Expert (MSE)**, has long promoted the philosophy of *’heat the human, not the home’*, urging families to focus heating on occupied areas instead of warming an entire property unnecessarily.
Understanding the ‘4pm Rule’
The ‘4pm rule’ centers around the strategic use of curtains to enhance home insulation. Lewis advises households to close their curtains at approximately **4pm**, which coincides with the setting sun during winter months. This practice can help retain heat indoors, delaying the need to activate central heating systems.
During his program, **The Martin Lewis Money Show**, he explained the concept: “When the sun is shining, it is letting light and heat into the house, so you want the curtains open. When it gets dark…you want to keep the heat in by closing the curtains.” The effectiveness of this routine has been reiterated by Lewis’ team, affirming that “the tips still work” even years after their initial introduction.
With sunset times varying from **3:47 pm** in northern regions to around **4:13 pm** in the south, closing curtains at these times can make a significant difference. Alongside curtains, lowering blinds can achieve similar results in retaining warmth.
Benefits of Enhanced Insulation
A study conducted by the **University of Salford** highlights the impact of simple actions, indicating that closing curtains at night can reduce heat loss by **15-17%**. By using energy-efficient, thermal-lined curtains or even fleece-lined alternatives, homeowners can create an insulating barrier that prevents warm air from escaping and cold air from entering.
Lewis suggests that for those on tighter budgets, attaching inexpensive fleece blankets to existing curtains can offer a cost-effective alternative. He also emphasizes the importance of ensuring that any materials used are fire-resistant.
In addition to curtain strategies, Lewis’ guidance includes installing reflective panels behind radiators and sealing any draughts in homes to further enhance energy efficiency. These simple yet effective adjustments can lead to noticeable savings on energy bills, especially as families navigate the challenges of colder weather.
As daylight hours gradually increase, it is essential for households to adjust their routines accordingly, continuing to implement these energy-saving measures throughout the winter months. By adopting the ‘4pm rule’ and focusing on insulation techniques, families can take proactive steps to manage heating costs while staying comfortable in their homes during this chilly season.
