Easy Tips for Cutting Energy Costs This Winter
Energy Bill Advice: Stay Warm and Save Money
As the weather gets colder, energy bills in the UK are set to rise. From October 1, the energy price cap will increase by 10%, bringing the average household bill to £1,717. Many people will find it hard to keep up with these rising costs, especially those with low incomes or older people without the £200-300 winter fuel payment they used to receive.
A recent survey found that half of UK households plan to use less energy this winter to save money. Charities are urging the government to do more to help. From the National Energy Action (NEA), Adam Scorer says, “Millions of families will struggle to pay their energy bills or keep their homes warm this winter.”
What Help is Available for You?
Even though energy costs are increasing, there are several ways to get help. Here’s a guide to the support you can use to reduce your energy bills this winter.
Government Support
Warm Home Discount
This is a one-time £150 discount on your electricity bill. If you qualify, this amount will be automatically deducted from your bill. You are likely to qualify if you’re on a low income or get the guarantee credit part of pension credit.
Household Support Fund
The government has extended this fund to help households with energy bills and other living costs. Your local council can offer assistance in different ways, such as giving cash grants, vouchers for food or energy bills, or providing support through food banks.
Winter Fuel Payment
If you are a low-income pensioner, you may be able to receive up to £300 to help with your heating costs. To qualify, your income must be below £218.15 a week and receive pension credit.
Help from Energy Providers
If you’re having trouble paying your energy bills, your law requires your provider to help you. You can contact them to discuss payment plans debt repayment options, or even request a bill reduction. Some energy providers, such as British Gas, also offer grants of up to £2,000, while others, like Octopus and OVO, give out free electric blankets to their most vulnerable customers.
Ways to Make Your Home More Energy Efficient
Simple Home Fixes
Making small, cheap changes to your home can save you a lot on energy bills. For example, insulating exposed hot water pipes can cost as little as £15 but can help them stay warm longer. Draught excluders for doors and windows can also keep the cold air out, making your home warmer without using more energy.
Upgrade Appliances
Using your appliances more efficiently can also make a difference. For example, washing clothes at 30°C instead of 40°C can save up to 38% on energy costs. If your appliances are old and inefficient, it may be worth upgrading. The government’s boiler upgrade scheme offers grants of up to £7,500 to replace old heating systems with more energy-efficient ones.
Control Your Heating
Water and room heating can be expensive, but simple tricks can help cut costs. If you have a hot water tank, turn it on only when needed. For combi boilers, set the water temperature a little lower to avoid wasting energy. Using thermostats and valves to heat only the rooms you’re using can also save you much money.
Final Tips With rising energy prices, it’s understandable that many households are worried. However, you can reduce your bills without spending a lot of money. You can offset the cost of rising energy bills by making small changes.
Explore all the support you can get, and don’t hesitate to contact your energy provider if you need help.
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