How can I quickly reduce my gas bill at home?

You can quickly reduce your gas bill by turning your thermostat down by 1°C, bleeding radiators so they heat efficiently, using your boiler's timer and heating only when needed, and closing doors to avoid heating unused rooms. Simple changes like fitting draught excluders, using TRVs (thermostatic radiator valves), and lowering flow temperature on modern boilers can significantly cut gas usage without sacrificing comfort.

What thermostat temperature is best for saving money on gas?

Most homes can stay comfortable with a thermostat set between 18°C and 20°C. Reducing your thermostat by just 1°C from your usual setting can cut heating costs by around 5–10% over the year. If you are older, ill, or have young children, do not set it too low – aim for around 20–21°C in main living areas for safety and comfort.

Is it cheaper to keep the heating on low all day or only when I need it?

For most households on a modern gas boiler, it is cheaper to heat your home only when you need it rather than keeping the heating on low all day. Gas is only burned when your boiler is running, so using the programmer or smart controls to match heating times to when you are at home is usually the most efficient approach. Well-insulated homes may benefit from longer, lower level heating, but for typical UK homes, timed heating is more cost-effective.

What boiler settings help lower my gas usage?

On a modern condensing boiler, reducing the flow temperature can improve efficiency and lower your gas bill. For radiators, try a flow temperature around 55–60°C instead of 70–80°C, and for underfloor heating, a lower setting is often enough. Use the heating timer, set hot water to a sensible target temperature (usually around 60°C in the cylinder), and regularly service your boiler so it runs safely and efficiently. If you are unsure, ask a Gas Safe registered engineer to check and optimise your settings.

Do smart thermostats really save money on gas?

Smart thermostats and smart TRVs can help lower your gas bill by giving you more precise control over when and where you heat your home. Features like scheduling, occupancy detection, and remote control via an app can prevent wasting energy heating an empty house or unused rooms. Savings depend on your habits and property, but many households see noticeable reductions in gas use after installing and correctly using smart heating controls.

How can I reduce my gas bill without replacing my boiler?

You can cut your gas bill significantly without a new boiler by improving insulation, eliminating draughts, optimising boiler controls, and using your heating more efficiently. Fit or top up loft and cavity-wall insulation where possible, install draught excluders, close curtains at night, keep radiators clear of furniture, and use TRVs to lower the temperature in less-used rooms. Combine these actions with sensible thermostat settings and a regular boiler service to maximise savings.

When should I consider upgrading my gas boiler to save money?

If your boiler is more than 10–15 years old, breaks down frequently, or is a non-condensing model, upgrading to a modern condensing boiler with smart controls can significantly reduce your gas usage. A new A-rated boiler can be up to 20–30% more efficient than an old G-rated model. If your energy bills are high and your boiler is aging, it is worth getting a professional assessment and a quote to compare the cost of replacement with the potential long-term savings.

Can better insulation really lower my gas bill?

Yes. Good insulation keeps more heat inside your home, meaning your boiler runs for shorter periods and uses less gas. Loft insulation, cavity-wall insulation, and properly insulated hot-water pipes and cylinders can all reduce heat loss. Even simple measures like draught-proofing doors and windows, using thermal curtains, and fitting radiator reflector panels can help keep rooms warmer for longer and lower your gas consumption.

What are some low-cost ways to cut my gas bill right now?

Low-cost steps include turning your thermostat down by 1°C, using your programmer to avoid heating your home when it is empty, closing internal doors, fitting draught excluders, and using TRVs to reduce temperatures in spare rooms. Bleeding radiators, moving furniture and curtains away from radiators, and closing curtains at dusk also help. These simple actions require little or no investment but can collectively make a noticeable difference to your gas bill.

How can I check if I am on the best gas tariff?

To ensure you are not overpaying for gas, compare tariffs from different suppliers using an Ofgem-accredited comparison site or by speaking directly to your energy provider. Have your recent gas usage in kWh to hand so you can get accurate quotes. Consider unit rates, standing charges, contract length, and any exit fees. Switching to a more competitive tariff or supplier, where available, can reduce your bills without changing how you use gas at home.

How to Reduce Your Gas Bill in the UK

Practical, proven ways to cut your heating costs while keeping your home warm and comfortable.

Gas bills have risen significantly in recent years, and many households across the United Kingdom are looking for reliable ways to cut costs without sacrificing comfort. The good news is that small changes to how you heat your home, use hot water, and maintain your boiler can add up to big savings on your gas bill.

This guide walks you through simple, low-cost actions you can take today, as well as longer-term improvements that can reduce your gas usage for years to come. Whether you own your home, rent privately, or live in social housing, there are steps you can take to lower your gas bills.

Use the checklist and tips below to create a personalised plan and start saving on your next statement.

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Quick Wins: Fast Ways to Reduce Your Gas Bill

Before you invest in major upgrades, start with these quick, low-cost changes that can immediately cut your gas usage:

– Turn your room thermostat down by 1°C (for many homes this can save around £80–£100 per year).
– Set your heating to come on only when needed using a programmer or smart controls.
– Bleed radiators that have cold spots at the top to improve heat output.
– Close doors between heated and unheated rooms to keep warmth where you need it.

– Use draught excluders around doors and windows to stop warm air escaping.
– Fit reflective foil panels behind radiators on external walls.
– Take shorter showers and avoid running hot taps longer than necessary.
– Check you are on a competitive gas tariff and switch if you are overpaying.

What Drives Your Gas Bill in the UK?

Your gas bill is based on how many kilowatt hours (kWh) of gas you use, multiplied by your supplier’s unit rate, plus a daily standing charge. To reduce what you pay, you need to:

Use fewer units of gas by making your home more efficient and changing how you use heating and hot water.
Pay less per unit by making sure you are on a competitive tariff with the right supplier for your usage.

For most UK households, the biggest share of gas usage comes from:

Space heating – your boiler and radiators warming your rooms.
Hot water – baths, showers, and hot taps.
Cooking – gas hobs and ovens (usually a smaller portion of your bill).

The tips in this guide focus mainly on heating and hot water, because that’s where you can make the largest savings.

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1. Control Your Heating More Efficiently

Smart control of your heating system is one of the easiest and most effective ways to reduce your gas bill. The aim is to heat the rooms you use, when you use them, to a comfortable but not excessive temperature.

Set the Right Room Temperature

For most UK homes, a living room temperature of around 18–21°C is usually comfortable. Every extra degree above this can increase your energy usage.

Try reducing your thermostat by 1°C and see if you still feel comfortable with a jumper or extra layer.
Avoid heating unused rooms to the same temperature as your main living areas.
Do not turn your thermostat up to heat the room faster – it only makes the boiler work longer, not quicker.

Use Timers and Programmers

Heating your home only when you need it can reduce wasted gas.

Program your heating to come on shortly before you wake up and switch off when you leave the house.
Set a lower temperature or off period overnight if your home retains heat well.
If you have regular routines, consider a smart thermostat that learns your schedule and adjusts automatically.

Fit and Use Thermostatic Radiator Valves (TRVs)

TRVs allow you to set different temperatures in different rooms. This prevents you from overheating spare rooms or hallways.

Turn TRVs down in rooms you rarely use, such as guest rooms or storage spaces.
Keep TRVs free from obstructions – do not cover them with curtains or furniture.
Use higher settings in bathrooms for comfort, and lower settings in bedrooms if you prefer sleeping in a cooler room.

Avoid Heating an Empty Home

Sometimes it is more economical to keep your home at a steady, moderate temperature, especially in well-insulated properties. However, in many UK homes with average insulation:

It is usually cheaper to turn the heating off when you go out for several hours.
Use a programmer or app to switch the heating on shortly before you return.
If you work from home some days, adjust your heating schedule accordingly to avoid waste.

2. Improve Your Boiler and Heating System Efficiency

Your boiler is at the heart of your gas usage. An old, inefficient, or poorly maintained boiler can cost you hundreds of pounds more per year than a modern, efficient system.

Service Your Boiler Regularly

An annual boiler service by a Gas Safe registered engineer can keep your system running efficiently and safely.

Identifies issues like low pressure, soot build-up, or faulty components that can waste gas.
Ensures your boiler is burning gas efficiently and within manufacturer settings.
Can extend the life of your boiler and reduce the risk of breakdowns on cold days.

If you rent, your landlord is responsible for providing an annual gas safety check, so ask for documentation if you have not seen it.

Check Your Boiler Controls and Flow Temperature

Many UK homes with condensing combi boilers run at unnecessarily high flow temperatures, which can reduce efficiency.

On modern condensing boilers, reducing your flow temperature (for example from 75–80°C down to 60–65°C) can help the boiler condense more often and use less gas.
Ensure your hot water temperature is set high enough for safety (typically 60°C at the cylinder) but not higher than necessary.
Do not alter sealed system pressures or internal components yourself – consult an engineer if unsure.

Upgrade an Old or Inefficient Boiler

If your boiler is older than 10–15 years, it may be much less efficient than a modern A-rated condensing boiler.

Replacing a G-rated boiler with an A-rated model can save a typical semi-detached home hundreds of pounds per year on gas bills, depending on usage.
Look for boilers with weather compensation or load compensation controls for additional savings.
Check if you qualify for government schemes or local grants to help with the cost of a boiler upgrade.

Balance and Bleed Your Radiators

Uneven heating can make you turn your thermostat up higher than needed, wasting gas.

Bleed radiators that are hot at the bottom and cold at the top to remove trapped air.
Ask an engineer to balance your system so radiators heat up evenly – this can improve comfort and efficiency.
Keep radiators clear – avoid blocking them with large furniture or heavy curtains.

3. Reduce Heat Loss with Insulation and Draught-Proofing

The cheaper and easier it is for your home to stay warm, the less gas you will need to burn. Good insulation and draught-proofing are essential.

Loft and Roof Insulation

A large amount of heat can escape through your roof if your loft is poorly insulated.

Ensure your loft insulation is at least 270mm thick (about 10–11 inches), as recommended in the UK.
If you already have some insulation, topping it up can still improve comfort and reduce gas use.
Ensure pipes and tanks in the loft are lagged to prevent heat loss and freezing.

Wall and Floor Insulation

Depending on the age and construction of your property, you may benefit from:

Cavity wall insulation in homes built from the 1920s onwards with cavity walls.
Internal or external wall insulation for solid-wall properties (often pre-1920).
Under-floor insulation for suspended timber floors, particularly in older houses.

These measures usually involve upfront cost but can significantly cut your annual gas bill and make your home feel warmer.

Stop Draughts Around Windows and Doors

Draughts make rooms feel colder, which tempts you to turn the heating up. Simple draught-proofing is inexpensive and effective.

Use draught excluder strips around doors and window frames.
Fit brush strips to the bottom of doors that open to the outside or unheated areas.
Seal gaps around pipes, letterboxes and keyholes where cold air enters.
Consider thicker curtains in winter and close them at dusk to keep heat in.

Use Radiator Reflectors and Smart Furnishing

Make the most of the heat you are already paying for:

Place reflective foil panels behind radiators on external walls to reflect heat back into the room.
Keep sofas, sideboards and large furniture at least a few inches away from radiators.
Do not dry clothes directly on radiators – use an airer in a heated room instead.

4. Cut Your Hot Water Gas Usage

Hot water accounts for a significant portion of your gas usage, especially in homes with several occupants. Small behaviour changes can reduce your hot water consumption without affecting hygiene or comfort.

Shower Smarter

Swap long baths for shorter showers whenever possible.
Fit a water-efficient showerhead compatible with your system; this can reduce the volume of hot water used.
Encourage household members to keep showers to five minutes where practical.

Use Hot Water Only When Needed

Do not leave hot taps running while brushing teeth or washing up.
Use a bowl when washing dishes rather than running the tap continuously.
If you have a hot water cylinder, insulate it with a jacket and set timers so water is heated only when required.

5. Make Sure You’re on a Competitive Gas Tariff

Even if you reduce your gas usage, overpaying for each unit of gas will keep your bills high. Reviewing your tariff regularly is an important part of managing your energy costs.

Why Switching Supplier Can Reduce Your Bill

Energy prices in the UK can vary widely between suppliers and tariffs. Depending on your usage and location, switching can lower your annual costs, especially if you haven’t changed supplier for several years.

Compare both the unit rate (per kWh) and the standing charge.
Check whether a fixed tariff or a variable tariff suits your needs best under the current price cap.
Use your annual usage in kWh (shown on your bill) for more accurate comparisons than using monthly spend.

If you are on a standard or default tariff, you may be able to move to a plan that better suits your pattern of gas usage.

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What You’ll Need to Switch

When you’re ready to look for a better deal, it helps to have:

Your latest gas and electricity bills.
Your current supplier’s name and tariff.
Your annual consumption in kWh (gas and electricity).
Your postcode, to show tariffs available in your area.

6. Everyday Habits That Lower Your Gas Bill

Many of the most effective actions cost nothing – they involve small behaviour changes that reduce how much heating you actually need.

Dress for the Season

Wear layers, warm socks, and use blankets on sofas before increasing the thermostat.
Use hot water bottles or heated throws for targeted warmth instead of heating the whole house.

Heat the Space You Use

Spend more time in one or two main rooms in the coldest months to avoid heating unused spaces.
Only heat spare rooms when needed and keep doors closed to retain warmth.

Ventilate Smartly

Fresh air is important for health, but uncontrolled draughts waste heat.

Open windows for short, sharp bursts of ventilation rather than leaving them on the latch all day.
Use extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms to remove moisture quickly and prevent damp.

Use Appliances Efficiently

Match pot size to hob ring size to avoid wasting heat up the sides.
Use pan lids so food cooks quicker and uses less gas.
Consider batch-cooking and reheating portions in the microwave, which typically uses less energy.

7. Help with Gas Bills for UK Households

There is support available if you are struggling with high gas bills, particularly for low-income or vulnerable households.

Check If You Qualify for Financial Support

Warm Home Discount Scheme – a one-off discount on electricity bills for eligible customers in England, Scotland and Wales (which can effectively free up budget towards gas).
Winter Fuel Payment – for most people born before a certain date, to help with heating costs.
Cold Weather Payments – in some circumstances when temperatures are very low.

Visit the official UK government website or speak directly to your supplier to find out what you can access.

Talk to Your Supplier Early

If you are worried about paying your gas bill:

Contact your supplier as soon as possible – they are required to work with you to agree a manageable plan.
Ask about payment plans, credit options or priority services registers if you are vulnerable.
Seek independent advice from organisations such as Citizens Advice if you are in debt or facing disconnection.

Simple Checklist to Start Reducing Your Gas Bill Today

Use this quick checklist to put the advice on this page into action right away:

Lower your main thermostat by 1°C and adjust timers to match your routine.
Bleed radiators and ensure nothing is blocking them.
Fit basic draught excluders to external doors and key windows.
Take shorter showers and fit an efficient showerhead.
Check your latest bill and compare tariffs to ensure you are not overpaying.
Plan longer-term improvements like loft insulation or a boiler upgrade.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Reducing Your Gas Bill

How much can I save by turning my thermostat down?

While savings vary with property type, insulation and usage, many households can save around £80–£100 per year by lowering the thermostat by just 1°C, without a noticeable drop in comfort.

Is it cheaper to heat all the time or only when needed?

For most UK homes with average insulation, it is usually more economical to heat your home only when needed and use timers, rather than keeping the heating on constantly at a low level. Exceptionally well-insulated homes may differ.

Do smart thermostats really save money?

Smart thermostats and smart TRVs can help cut gas usage by avoiding unnecessary heating and optimising schedules. The exact saving depends on your habits, but many users see noticeable reductions in their bills over time.

What is the most effective way to reduce heat loss?

Good loft and wall insulation, combined with draught-proofing around doors and windows, are among the most effective measures. They may involve an upfront cost but pay back over many winters through lower gas bills and improved comfort.

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Updated on 7 Dec 2025