Energy tariffs are rising: which gadgets can help save on heating.

According to The Sun: As winter approaches and electricity bills rise, many households are being cautious about turning on central heating.

Latest data from Ofgem shows that bills have risen by £35.14 a year for households with average energy consumption.

Rating of the best offers on energy-saving devices

The average bill for a standard tariff now stands at £102 a month, up from the previous £100.

However, using gadgets such as electric blankets and wall heaters can help reduce these costs.

These devices are generally more economical than constant use of central heating.

However, it is important to remember that costs can vary depending on the supplier and the duration of the device's operation.

Electric blankets

An electric blanket will come in handy when the weather turns colder.

Electric blankets can be a convenient tool to reduce electricity costs: a blanket for one consumes only 40-60 watts. Larger blankets covering a double or king-sized bed consume more, but still cost only a few pence compared to central heating.

There are many models available, so it is crucial to check reviews to learn what other buyers think of the selected model.

The Silentnight Comfort Control blanket has received high ratings from consumers.

Amazon has reduced the price of this item by 16%, making it cost £25.16 for the single bed variant. Unlike Boots, where this blanket sells for £31.

The Range has also reduced the price of the Silentnight Teddy Fleece blanket to £24.49 from £35. This product is available for free collection, which can save on delivery costs.

Thermal curtains

Thermal curtains can be a great investment for reducing electricity costs. These curtains keep heat in your home, reduce drafts, and act as insulation made of several layers of dense fabric.

In summer, these curtains help block heat from entering and reduce noise.

B&Q offers a set of black thermal curtains for £9.99, making them one of the most affordable on the market. The Range also sells a set of Dreamscene Pencil Pleat Blackout Thermal Curtains for £10.99, which is another great purchase.

However, it is important to measure your windows correctly to choose curtains of the right size.

Wall heaters

This wall heater costs £9.99 at Screwfix

Wall heaters can be a great way to heat your home economically. They are portable and compact, making it easy to move from room to room without turning on central heating.

Screwfix offers a flat fan heater of 2000W for £9.99, making it one of the most affordable options. B&Q also sells a portable electric fan from Geepas for £14.99. Other great offers include a 2000W flat fan from Dunelm for £16. This device consumes only 45 pence an hour, which helps save compared to using central heating.

Radiator reflection foil

It is placed behind your radiator and reflects heat back into the room instead of letting it escape through cold walls

If you decide to turn on the heating, investing in radiator foil can help save money. This foil is placed behind the radiator and reflects heat back into the room instead of losing it through cold walls.

Experts claim that adding foil can save about £20–£50 a year for the average household in the UK, with the possibility of greater savings if your radiators are placed on uninsulated exterior walls. At Screwfix, foil is sold for £6.38, reduced from £7.51. B&Q offers its version for £10.99.

How to get the best deal on heating gadgets

When looking for heating gadgets, it’s important to compare prices to avoid overpaying. Websites like PriceSpy UK allow you to compare prices on products across major retail chains to see if you’re getting the best deal.

Also, keep an eye out for promotions during Black Friday, which takes place on November 28. This is an event where stores temporarily lower prices on a range of products, encouraging shoppers to be more active.

Laura Court-Jones, editor for small businesses at Bionic, shared her tips:

• 1. Lower your heating temperature by one degree. You probably won’t even notice this slight difference, but you will save on energy bills. Lowering the thermostat by one level is a quick way to start saving.
• 2. Turn off appliances and lighting. This seems simple, but completely turning off appliances and lights can reduce energy bills, especially in winter.
• 3. Install a smart meter. Smart meters let you monitor energy use as they show when and how much energy is being used.
• 4. Consider switching your energy supplier. Your current supplier may not provide the best rates, so check alternative options.

In the face of rising energy bills and a limited budget, it's important to look for ways to reduce costs. Using alternative heating devices can help save without compromising comfort. And being mindful of energy consumption and comparing prices will help make a rational choice in the household.