With Google searches for ‘help with energy bills’ having doubled in the last month alone, it’s clear that Britons are desperate to bring energy costs down.
The average home currently pays energy bills of £1,834 a year, but all suppliers have to give some support for certain customers, such as the elderly, vulnerable and those in fuel poverty, under government rules.
The first step for someone struggling with energy bills is to speak to their energy firm.
These firms have to try to set up an affordable payment plan under Ofgem rules or review one already in place.
As well as taking help from the Government, experts at St. Modwen Homes, a leading housebuilder of energy-efficient properties, have shared the “common pitfalls that lead to higher energy bills” and how people can avoid them this winter.
- Heating on low, or no?
Everyone has probably heard that leaving the heating on low all day will save them energy, but that’s actually “a huge myth”. To make the best use of the heating in the long run, Britons should only turn it on when they need to. It’ll save them more energy which, in turn, will benefit their bank account.
- Ignorance isn’t always bliss
Hearing terms like ‘insulation’, ‘cavity wall’ and ‘air-tight’ can make many people instantly switch off. But, ignoring these crucial elements can cost someone dearly. Inadequate insulation is a major culprit in energy waste, and neglecting proper insulation means that their heating systems must work overtime, resulting in skyrocketing energy costs.
- Don’t be preheat ovens for too long
In the famous words of Gordon Ramsey, “don’t be an idiot sandwich”. Preheating ovens for too long, using oversized pots and pans, and forgetting to use lids can result in energy wastage when they’re cooking up a storm. If someone is looking to save money when cooking, using appliances like microwaves and air fryers can help conserve energy, quite significantly.
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- Out with the old
Outdated appliances guzzle electricity and gas. So, if someone has got an old fridge, oven or washing machine, upgrading to new energy-efficient models can lead to substantial long-term savings. Although it may be costly upfront, people will thank themselves in years to come.
- It costs watt?
Leaving on lights, appliances, and electronic devices when one is not using them can cost them more than theyrealise – hundreds of pounds a year, in fact. Implementing energy-saving practices in daily life, such as switching off the lights when not in use, can make a significant difference.
- Hot stuff
On a cold winter day, there’s nothing better than a hot shower or bath. However, taking a long time in the tub and using excessive hot water can cause an increase in the bills. Cutting down on the time spent in the bathroom, or even installing low-flow showerheads can “make all the difference”.
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- Shut the front door!
Closing internal doors and isolating specific rooms or areas within the home can keep one’s body heat up and their energy bills down. This is especially useful in larger homes or multi-story properties. By closing doors to rooms that they’re not using, they can prevent the heat from escaping into unoccupied areas.
How much are heating products and appliances costing?
- Electric blanket – £5.83 per month
- Towel rail – £29.16 per month
- Air source heat pump – £64.80 per month
- Fan heater – £162 per month
- Oil filled radiator – £162 per month
- Panel heater or electric fire – £162 per month
- Immersion heater – £194.40 per month
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