As temperatures drop and boilers switch back on across Britain, households are being urged to make one surprisingly simple change that could help cut heating bills this winter.
Energy experts at Free Price Compare say that adding a small shelf above radiators can help push warm air out into the room instead of letting it rise straight up the wall — improving heat circulation and reducing wasted energy.
The advice comes as Ofgem’s energy price cap increased by 2 per cent to £1,755 from 1 October 2025, adding around £2.93 a month to a typical dual-fuel bill.
Why It Works
Placing a short floating shelf roughly 15 centimetres above a radiator creates a barrier that redirects heat sideways into the room. This simple adjustment prevents warmth from being lost up the wall, making central heating more efficient.
The shelf can be made from inexpensive materials such as MDF or pine and costs less than £10 to install. When combined with other quick fixes — such as draught excluders, reflective foil behind radiators and door seals — it can noticeably reduce heating time.
Shay Ramani, energy expert and founder of Free Price Compare, explained:
“Small, low-cost improvements add up fast. A radiator shelf helps the heat spread evenly, meaning your boiler doesn’t need to work as hard. Every degree lower on your thermostat can save around 4 per cent on annual heating costs, so better circulation really matters.”
Households Still Paying More Than They Should
The October rise follows a volatile period for energy markets. Although wholesale gas prices have stabilised, standing charges and policy levies have kept overall bills high.
Ramani said many families are unaware that their current supplier may not be offering the best value:
“Millions are still sitting on default or prepayment meter tariffs, paying some of the highest unit rates in the country. Reviewing your tariff before winter could make a big difference.”
According to Ofgem data, around 4 million households now use prepayment meters. These customers pay more per kWh on average and have less flexibility if prices fall.
Switching Could Save Hundreds
While households focus on saving heat, switching tariffs remains one of the quickest ways to lower costs.
A growing number of suppliers have introduced fixed energy tariffs below the current cap, allowing customers to lock in prices for the next 12 months and avoid further increases.
Ramani added:
“Fixed deals were scarce for almost two years, but competition has returned. Some fixed offers are already under the October cap, which means you could start saving immediately. Checking your options only takes a few minutes online.”
Using trusted comparison services such as Free Price Compare allows consumers to compare energy deals across multiple suppliers, identifying cheaper fixed or dual-fuel bundles. The platform analyses tariffs by postcode, standing charge and usage, helping households choose the most affordable and stable option available.
More Ways to Boost Efficiency
Energy specialists also recommend:
- Bleeding radiators once a year to remove trapped air and improve heating performance.
- Using thermostatic radiator valves so heat can be adjusted room by room.
- Insulating hot-water pipes and adding reflective foil behind radiators on external walls.
- Setting heating timers so warmth is maintained only when needed.
For households struggling with higher costs, government help remains available through the Warm Home Discount and the Great British Insulation Scheme, though eligibility varies.
The Cost of Inaction
Energy debt reached a record £4.4 billion in mid-2025, according to Ofgem, up £750 million year-on-year. With colder months ahead, consumer groups warn that without proactive changes, more households could fall behind on payments.
Ramani cautioned:
“The cap offers guidance, not a guarantee of affordability. Every household’s usage is different. Combining better efficiency at home with a cheaper tariff is the most effective way to protect your finances this winter.”
He added that prepayment customers in particular should review their options:
“If you’re on a meter, speak to your supplier about support schemes or consider switching to a direct-debit plan where possible. Even small adjustments can bring meaningful relief.”
Act Before Winter Bites
Experts expect demand for fixed tariffs to rise quickly as cold weather returns. Energy firms typically withdraw their cheapest offers once wholesale prices start climbing.
Ramani concluded:
“Don’t wait until January to make changes. Check your insulation, add simple radiator shelves, and compare energy deals today. By pairing energy-saving habits with the right tariff, households can head into winter with greater confidence and lower bills.”
