How to save money on energy bills: 10 tips for cutting the cost of gas and electric

Energy prices have skyrocketed in the last year. Since demand has picked up following the end of COVID-19 lockdowns, wholesale gas prices have risen by more than 300%. 

Here are some of the ways households can reduce the costs of their energy bills: 

1. Switch off appliances when you’re not using them

Leaving appliances on standby can end up using more electricity. To save money on your bills, make sure you switch off any appliances you’re not using. 

If you often forget to do this, you can use cheap timer plugs to automatically switch them off at a set time. 

2. Use a smart thermostat

Depending on where you live, a significant proportion of your energy bills could be going on heating. A smart thermostat is one way to reduce these costs. 

Smart thermostats only heat up rooms when you’re using them and keep them at the right temperature at the right time. You can also control them using a mobile app. 

3. Turn down the temperature

Another way to reduce your heating bill is to turn down the temperature on the thermostat. Even a small decrease can lead to substantial savings on your bill. 

4. Switch to energy-efficient appliances

If you need to buy a new appliance, picking one with a strong energy efficiency rating can save you money in the long run. This also includes buying energy-efficient light bulbs like LEDs. 

5. Change the way you wash clothes

Running the washing machine can be expensive. However, you can save on electricity costs by washing clothes at a lower temperature and having clothes out to dry, rather than using a dryer. 

6. Make sure your home is properly insulated

Insulating your home can make your energy bills cheaper. Two of the most effective ways to do this are investing in double glazing or insulating the roof. 

If this isn’t possible, there are other ways to keep the heat in. For example, you can prevent draughts by sealing any cracks in the floor or walls, and you can make sure you close all the curtains and blinds in the evening. 

7. Monitor your energy consumption

Monitoring your energy consumption with a smart meter allows you to track your usage in real-time. This means you can keep an eye on how much you’re using and change your habits. 

8. See if you’re entitled to any grants or discounts

If you’re on a low income or are retired, you could be entitled to a grant or discount on your bills. To check this, ask your provider or search for the relevant government department. 

9. Switch to a different supplier or tariff

Another way to potentially save money is to switch to a different supplier or tariff. A price comparison website can help you search for a better deal. 

Not only could you get a cheaper tariff, but some suppliers also offer bonuses or discounts for new customers signing up. 

10. Consider changing your payment method

Lastly, changing your payment method could save you money on your bills. If you pay by a card or bank transfer, switching to direct debit can sometimes be cheaper.