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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Efforts to reach a peace agreement between Iran and the United States have stalled…
Passengers aboard the MV Hondius finally stepped onto dry land in Tenerife after spending…
A significant cybersecurity incident targeting the Canvas learning management system has sparked concern across…
Inflation in the United States increased to 3.8% in April, marking its highest level…
New research suggests that a major system of ocean currents in the Atlantic is losing…
A major climate shift could soon influence weather patterns worldwide as conditions in the…