HEAT ME UP
Lidl’s sell-out winter gadget to avoid putting the heating on is returning to shelves TODAY and costs just 3p to run
See how the cost compares to central heating
A POPULAR gadget that keeps you warm without having to crank up the heating is back on shelves at Lidl.
The cosy buy is just £39.99 and costs just pennies to run so could help you keep on top of energy costs.
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Silentnight's Luxury Faux Fur Heated Throw is available in Lidl's Middle Aisle from today.
It heats up in minutes and comes with nine heat settings ranging from moderate warmth (2-5) to "ultimate cosiness" (5-8), along with a pre-heat option.
Measuring 160cm by 130cm, the throw has an automatic switch off after two hours with the option of setting the shut off time yourself.
The throw has received five-star reviews on the Silentnight website, with shoppers branding it "fab", "perfect on chilly evenings" and "soft and cosy".
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It's also machine washable and comes with a one year warranty should something go wrong.
In previous year's the gadget has been a sell-out, with shoppers eager to find ways to stay warm that won't break the bank.
Putting the heating on means you're warming up the whole house and you could be paying to heat unused rooms unnecessarily.
Warming up yourself instead of your home - a method made popular by Martin Lewis - is one way to reduce energy bills.
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Under the current price cap it costs around £1.50 an hour to have the heating on, though this can vary according to the boiler you have and what energy tariff you're on.
With 120W power, the throw costs just 3p an hour to run.
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But remember if you're elderly, ill or vulnerable and worried about energy bills there' s help available (see below) and you should never go without heating.
Silentnight's luxury faux fur throw typically sells for £75 or more, from the brand's website and shops such as Curry's and Argos.
That means you're saving at least £35, though it's always worth shopping around and comparing prices to make sure you're getting the best deal.
You can do that using tools like PriceSpy, Idealo and Google Shopping.
The £39.99 price tag is also only for those who have the Lidl Plus loyalty app. Without it you'll pay £44.99.
What energy bill help is available?
There's a number of different ways to get help paying your energy bills if you're struggling to get by.
If you fall into debt, you can always approach your supplier to see if they can put you on a repayment plan before putting you on a prepayment meter.
This involves paying off what you owe in instalments over a set period.
If your supplier offers you a repayment plan you don't think you can afford, speak to them again to see if you can negotiate a better deal.
Several energy firms have schemes available to customers struggling to cover their bills.
But eligibility criteria vary depending on the supplier and the amount you can get depends on your financial circumstances.
For example, British Gas or Scottish Gas customers struggling to pay their energy bills can get grants worth up to £2,000.
British Gas also offers help via its British Gas Energy Trust and Individuals Family Fund.
You don't need to be a British Gas customer to apply for the second fund.
EDF, E.ON, Octopus Energy and Scottish Power all offer grants to struggling customers too.
Thousands of vulnerable households are missing out on extra help and protections by not signing up to the Priority Services Register (PSR).
The service helps support vulnerable households, such as those who are elderly or ill.
Some of the perks include being given advance warning of blackouts, free gas safety checks and extra support if you're struggling.
Get in touch with your energy firm to see if you can apply.
You can download the app for free on Apple and Google's app stores, depending in the phone you have.
You don't earn points like other loyalty cards, but it gives you access to cheaper prices on some items as well as offers at your local store.
Lidl Plus also gives shoppers freebies after spending a certain amount.
For instance when you spend £10 you''ll get a voucher in the app to get a free bakery item.
As the energy-saving gadget is one of Lidl's Middle Aisle deals you'll need to be quick.
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These deals, which land every Thursday and Sunday, are only available in limited quantities and when stock is gone, it's gone.
You can find out what Middle Aisle deals are coming in to store via Lidl leaflets in store, or digital versions on the website or app.
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