Is it cheaper to leave heating on low all day?

No. Heating only when needed is more efficient. Warm the rooms you use and turn it off when you do not. Use thermostatic radiator valves and timers to target heat. This reduces heat loss and avoids paying to maintain temperature when no one benefits.

Are tumble dryers really expensive to run?

Yes, tumble dryer costs are high because they draw a lot of electricity for long cycles. Air drying is cheaper. Speed up drying with a higher spin, good airflow, and a dehumidifier if needed. Limiting dryer use to urgent loads can trim monthly bills.

How should UK households prepare for the July price cap change?

Plan for a projected £332 annual increase. Update your budget, submit accurate meter readings, and cut waste by heating only occupied rooms. Review tariffs and any support you might qualify for. Making small changes now spreads the impact across months.

What does this mean for investors in UK markets?

Higher bills can keep inflation sticky, slow rate-cut hopes, and pressure discretionary spending. We are watching CPI, retail volumes, and utilities’ bad-debt trends. Retailers may see trading down, while utilities face arrears risk. Portfolio positioning should reflect ongoing consumer and policy uncertainty.

Global Market Insights

March 22: Money Saving Expert debunks ‘low heat all day’, warns on dryers

ByHuzaifa Zahoor March 22, 2026March 22, 2026

Money Saving Expert has weighed in on a common UK myth: leaving heating on low all day does not save money. Martin Lewis heating guidance is clear. Heat only when needed and focus on rooms you use. He also warned that tumble dryer costs are high compared to air drying. With Ofgem’s July cap projection adding £332 to annual bills, we see pressure on household budgets and discretionary spend. For investors, elevated energy costs can keep inflation sticky and affect UK retail and utility shares.