13m households can’t afford to turn the heating on

Millions of UK households are not turning on the heating when it’s cold because of the high cost of energy, according to new research.

A Which? survey found 46% of people questioned refused to turn their heating on when temperatures plummeted last winter in a bid to save money. This is equivalent to 13 million households.

Increased risk of illness

Which? has warned this is putting people at risk of getting ill. The consumer group explained that sitting in freezing conditions at home makes it more likely you’ll experience serious respiratory and cardiovascular health problems. These include infections, asthma attacks, strokes and heart disease.

More findings

The survey found lower income households and those aged 45-64 are less likely to turn the heating on when it’s cold.

51% of households with an annual income of less than £20,000 refuse to turn the heating on compared to 32% of households with an annual income of more than £80,000.

Which? suggested those aged 45-64 are probably more inclined to try and cut energy costs as they have more financial responsibilities than those younger than them, but are not yet eligible to access pension savings like those older than them.

Other actions people are taking to cut energy costs

• 54% wear extra layers at home
• 41% use the oven less
• 33% have cut down on baths and showers

Call to help those struggling

Which? has called on the government and energy firms to take action to help people who are struggling to make ends meet. They say a properly targeted social tariff would ensure energy was affordable for those who have been worst affected by rising prices.

They point to a Citizens Advice proposal for a social tariff based on both household income and energy usage. According to Citizens Advice, this would effectively target support where it is most needed and avoid creating a cliff-edge based on benefits eligibility.  

Energy price cap announcement

Ofgem is due to announce its next energy price cap on Friday (25 August). It’s expected to bring the typical annual household bill down to £1,843 from 1 October. But the cap is then expected to rise to £1,979 from 1 January next year. It currently sits at £2,053.

The Centre for Policy Studies recently called for the price cap to be scrapped. They claim the cap is keeping energy bills artificially high and no longer fulfils its original purpose of protecting customers unable to switch due to illness, disability or being on a prepayment meter.