At the end of 2013 many of the UK’s leading energy providers hiked their energy prices by up to 10%. This was an extremely unwelcome move for many households, leading to spiralling costs just as winter arrived. With prices at an all-time high, the New Year is a great time to look at your electricity prices and consumption and make changes which will help reduce those bills. This article describes ten ways that could help you make energy savings and get 2014 off to a great start.
1. Check your tariff
Despite a wide range of information on consumer websites, many people are confused by energy tariffs and may even be on a different contract to the one they imagine. Make sure you know exactly what tariff your supplier is providing you and check to see if it’s the cheapest they offer. If not, it may be time to change it.
2. Shop around
The energy market remains competitive, with some providers introducing new tariffs and long term fixes to tempt consumers. There is a wealth of information available online or over the phone to help you see what deals are out there. Be careful of any exit penalties on your existing tariffs though, as you don’t want to make a cost saving by switching supplier only to face a penalty from your current provider.
3. Check your loft insulation
Poorly-insulated lofts positively leak heat. If your insulation is less than the recommended 270mm thickness, then top it up. This can be done either by purchasing rolls of insulation from a local garden centre or home improvement store, or by checking to see if your provider offers top-up insulation for free – many energy companies do offer free insulation checks, particularly for the elderly or those on low incomes, so don’t be caught short!
4. Remove unwanted draughts
Windows and doors can leak heat – if you can’t afford to update your windows to the latest energy-efficient models, and then take simple steps to avoid unnecessary heat loss by fitting draught excluders or even a thicker set of curtains. Your rooms will feel warmer immediately. Also check for any leaks around loft hatch openings or patio doors.
5. Turn down the thermostat
Many people would rather turn up the heating than dress warmly. This leads to huge rises in energy consumption and unnecessary wastage. By turning the thermostat down by just 1 degree throughout the house, you can save a lot of money on your bills – just throw on a jumper to compensate!
6. Don’t waste heat in unused rooms
If you have a spare bedroom or space that isn’t used very often, don’t waste energy heating it all the time – turn the room radiator down and save more money.
7. Energy saving lighting
Many houses have switched to much more efficient energy saving light bulbs, but if you haven’t, do so – you could save up to 95% on your lighting bill, and the bulbs last a lot longer than convention ones too (up to 25 times longer in some cases), a double saving.
8. Monitor your usage
Many energy companies offer a free energy monitor which tells you exactly where your energy consumption (and money) is going. You can also pick them up relatively cheaply from home improvement stores. By monitoring your use and identifying any possible wastage, you’ll save money immediately.
9. Government grants
Many grants are available for those looking to make longer term savings – for example there are new Green incentives for fitting solar panels or replacing your old boiler, with immediate improvements on your energy consumption. This is probably not advisable if you’re thinking of moving home, but can definitely lead to large savings over a number of years.
10. Cavity wall insulation
Like lofts, walls can leak heat – fitting cavity wall insulation can save hundreds of pounds per annum. Again, many companies offer free checks or installation, and there are grants available for those who don’t qualify for the free offers.
Disclosure: A fee was received for this post but in no way affects the honesty of my opinions and experiences told in my own words.
