Millions brace for costly winter as energy bills rise

By the Editorial Team · Wednesday, October 21, 2026

Millions of UK households are facing higher energy bills this winter as Ofgem’s price cap increased and costs are expected to rise further, prompting many to limit their heating use. Experts warn that reducing heating too much can compromise safety and comfort, and advise measures such as improving home efficiency, checking heating systems, and exploring better tariffs to manage expenses.

As colder weather approaches, millions of households in the UK are preparing for a financially challenging winter due to rising energy costs. Research by residential property management company FirstPort reveals that six out of ten people are concerned about maintaining adequate warmth in their homes, with one in three expecting to reduce their energy use to manage bills.

According to analyses of Met Office weather data by energy provider So Energy, most households switched on their heating Monday, but many are likely to delay activation to control expenses. The energy price cap set by regulator Ofgem increased by 4% on October 1, raising the typical annual cost for a dual-fuel household paying by direct debit from £1,663 to £1,723. Forecasts from Cornwall Insight suggest that this figure could climb to nearly £2,000 between January and March, marking a further £276 increase. Ofgem is expected to announce the next price cap in late November.

It is important to note that the price cap applies to unit rates and standing charges but does not set a maximum total bill, which depends on individual consumption and other factors.

Emma Spencer, an energy expert with Compare the Market, cautioned against delaying heating for too long, emphasizing the need to maintain a safe and comfortable indoor temperature. Government guidelines recommend keeping homes at a minimum of 18°C, especially for older adults and people with pre-existing health conditions.

Spencer advised several efficiency measures, including checking radiators for cold spots and bleeding them to eliminate trapped air that can hinder heating. She also suggested ensuring thermostats, timers, and smart controls are correctly set to avoid heating empty rooms unnecessarily. Running the heating briefly ahead of colder weather can help identify potential system issues. Additional recommendations included draught-proofing doors and windows to reduce heat loss and arranging furniture to allow effective heat circulation. Regular boiler servicing before winter may also prevent breakdowns.

Lloyd Greenfield, chief executive of energy specialist Glow Green, recommended consumers shop around for better tariff deals by reviewing their actual gas and electricity usage in kilowatt hours, which can be found on recent bills or supplier apps. He urged customers to consider factors such as fixed versus variable tariffs, contract end dates, and exit fees before switching providers. Those facing difficulty paying their energy bills were encouraged to contact their suppliers early to discuss support or repayment plans.

For longer-term cost reduction, Greenfield suggested investing in home improvements such as insulation, solar panels, or heat pumps. He emphasized the importance of obtaining multiple quotes and comparing installation costs, maintenance expenses, warranties, and projected savings before making a commitment.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.