Martin Lewis's 6pm rule can help keep your home warmer for longer

Martin Lewis has revealed one strategy to help Brits keep their homes warmer for longer whilst potentially cutting costs. He disclosed this strategy on his ITV show several years ago, but can still be used today. On the official Money Saving Expert website, his team of experts notes the programme segment was filmed in November 2022 and confirms that "the tips still work".

The guidance requires following a rule "rigorously" at a particular time each day as temperatures start to fall. Speaking to viewers, Mr Lewis stated: "Use tactical curtains." He's referring to energy-saving curtains created to regulate heat - typically thermal, lined window treatments.

He added: "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.

"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."

The sun is due to set just after 6pm nationwide at this time of year, meaning it's advisable to pull your curtains at around that time to trap as much warmth inside your home as possible.

This will provide you with extra time before needing to switch on the heating.

Come October 30, sunset will be at around 4.38pm, so you'll need to be closing the curtains even earlier. Investing in a new set of thicker curtains could also prove a wise purchase.

Mr Lewis also recommends adding affordable fleece throws to your existing curtains, installing reflective panels behind radiators and eliminating draughts.