With energy prices set to rise in the UK, many of us are starting to feel the heat.
According to the industry regulator, Ofgem, families should expect a 53% increase by spring.
Working from home and hybrid working during the pandemic has also seen consumption (and therefore bills) rise.
As concerns over energy costs grow, let’s take a look at simple steps you can take today to reduce your energy bills.
1. Use a Smart Meter
Many of us already use one, but if you don’t then now might be the time to considering installing it. The Smart Meter automatically sends updates about your consumption to keep your bills accurate and can ensure you don’t pay too much.
2. Bleed Your Radiators
At least once a year bleed your radiators to remove any air that has become trapped in your central heating system. Air pockets can prevent radiators from working correctly, meaning your boiler will need to work harder to heat your home.
3. Draught Proofing
An easy way to lower your energy bills is to stop heat escaping through unwanted gaps around doors and windows. You can go one step further by installing professional draught-proofing:
- Windows – Use draught-proofing strips around the frame. Brush strips work better for sash windows.
- Doors – Use draught-proofing strips around the edges and brush or hinged-flap draught excluders at the bottom.
- Chimney and fireplace – If you don’t use your fireplace, use an inflatable pillow to block the chimney, or fit a cap over the chimney pot. If you have an open chimney, this alone could save you £18 a year.
- Floorboards and skirting – Floorboards need to move, so use a flexible silicone-based filler to fill the gaps Loft hatches Use draught-proofing foam strips to keep heat in.
4. Replace Lightbulbs
By simply switching to energy-saving LED light bulbs, you can save hundreds of pounds in energy costs during the lifetime of the bulb. The bonus is that energy-saving light bulbs last longer than traditional ones!
5. Add Insulation
According to Which.co.uk, laying loft insulation to a thickness of 270mm in a typical non-insulated three-bedroom semi could trim £135 a year from energy bills, as less heat will be lost through the roof. Insulating cavity walls can save up to £155 a year in a semi-detached house. Solid-wall insulation, although more expensive to fit, could save you £210 in the same type of house.
6. Use Less Hot Water
Energy Saving Trust estimates that the energy used to heat water counts for 20% of the average heating bill. So what can you do to reduce your consumption of hot water?
- Speed up your shower.
- Pack the dishwasher full.
- Turn the hot water temperature on your boiler down.
7. Adjust Your Heating Timers
By adjusting your heating timers to ensure your house only warms up when you need it to, especially if your working patterns have changed due to working from home or hybrid work. Many modern thermostats enable you to set different temperatures at different times with separate programs for weekends which helps to effectively manage your heating needs.
So give these tips a go and take a little pressure off your next energy bill. If you enjoy money-saving tips, don’t forget to give us a follow on Facebook so you don’t miss out.