With wholesale gas prices having reached all-time-highs, and with the UK set to face a greater than normal risk of a cold winter this year, households need to be prepared for a dramatic increase in energy bills. Meteorologists suggest that the expected cold winter this year threatens to spark a greater demand for gas, which is already at sky high prices. A number of energy suppliers have already collapsed under the pressure of rising gas prices.
Since January 2021, gas prices have risen by 250%. Prices have soared 70% from August alone, which leaves the question: How do I cut my energy bills this winter?
Although the cost of energy is out of your control, the amount of energy you use is completely up to you. Read some of our top tips so you can get started cutting your energy bills:
1. Heating controls
It’s important to understand your heating controls and make sure that they are set to only heat the rooms you need, when you need them. Always make sure that your rooms are not heated above the temperature required, as this will cost you. If you don’t already have a thermostat, programmer and thermostatic radiator valves installed, you should seriously consider getting them installed as they could save you £70 a year on your bills and reduce your carbon emissions by 300kg.
2. Use energy saving light bulbs
LED bulbs are the most energy-efficient light bulbs on the market, and use around 90% less energy than normal light bulbs. LED bulbs are suitable for all uses, including down lights, spotlights and even outdoor lights. They only cost about £3 and will pay for themselves through your energy savings. If you already make use of energy-efficient light bulbs, then be sure to switch your lights off when you leave the room.
3. Draught-proof your home
Draught-proofing your home is important if you want your home to retain its heat. What’s the point of heating your home if the heat is just going to escape through unwanted gaps around doors and windows? Below are some of the area’s you should look at draught-proofing:
- Windows and doors – You can get draught-proofing strips to place around the frames.
- Chimney – If you have an open chimney, you should consider fitting a cap over the chimney pot.
4. Insulate your home
Good insulation is vital in making your home more energy-efficient. Insulating both your loft and cavity walls can save you a large portion of your energy bill. Insulation will help keep your rooms warmer for longer, whilst using less energy. When it comes to your loft, around a quarter of heat from uninsulated homes is lost through the roof, loft insulation will help retain this heat.
5. Get a new boiler
Did you know that more than half of what you spend on energy every year goes to heating? A new boiler is obviously quite pricey, but when you do need a new one, you can save a large portion of your energy bill by fitting an energy-efficient boiler.
If you’re on a low-income, then you may qualify for free insulation or a boiler grant. Check here to find out if you qualify.
Further ways to reduce your energy bills this winter: Switch energy suppliers
Most UK consumers don’t compare their energy tariffs annually or even look at switching their energy providers.
Check out My Utility Genius, an energy comparison service that helps you find the best energy deals. Using your current usage and spend, My Utility Genius will find you the best offers on the market for your particular needs.
If you are interested in cutting your energy bills, then contact My Utility Genius today to find the best rates.
At Debt Movement, we know that bad debt happens to good people. Our mission is to rescue people who have found themselves in financial difficulty. If you are having trouble with your energy bills or any other debt this winter then contact us today, we are here to help you on your journey to financial freedom.
