Are you completely distraught at the increase in energy prices? Here are five quick ways to reduce your energy costs.
As of the first of April, pretty much everyone’s energy bills are set to increase. While energy firms have slowly been preparing us for this in the last few months by increasing direct debit amounts, on April the 1st, the Government’s current energy price cap will end and a new one will come into place.
This new energy price cap, is considerably lower than the previous one meaning most people will see their bills rise by around 50%.
This new price cap is set to end in October which will mean another round of price increases then unless the government step in and do something to help – which I really hope they do but considering the bunch of muppets that are currently in charge, I’m not going to hold my breath.
There are things you can do within your home to reduce your energy consumption and as this is a home blog I thought it was important to take a look at some of them.
But, I want to be clear. These might help help you save a couple of hundred pounds over the course of the year. They won’t dramatically reduce your energy costs right now. However, I always feel doing something is better than doing nothing.
And even reducing energy costs by £10 a month is better than nothing.
5 Quick Ways To Reduce Energy Costs
Turn Your Heating Down
Seems like an obvious one but turning your heating down, even by one degree can save as much as £75 a year. I’d also recommend doing a review of how often and how long your heating is on for.
Could this be cut back at all? Absolutely not saying anyone should let themselves of their family freeze, but if you’ve recently gone back to work after being work from home, there could be saving to be made.
If you have a smart heating sensor such as Hive, this can really help you only switch the heating on when you really need it.
Ditch the Tumble Dryer
Tumble dryers consume loads of energy but drying washing in winter can be tricky, especially when it can seem like it never stops raining.
If you can, place your clothes horse next to your radiator and cover it with a sheet to allow the warm air in. It’s sort of like a DIY heated clothes airer.
Only Wash When Full
This applies to both the dishwasher and washing machine. Using a dishwasher uses less water and energy than washing up but you need to only run it when full.
The same goes for your washing machine. Wait until it’s full, wash at 30 and use a short cycle or eco setting if you can.
Switch Off Standby
If you take a look around your home you might be surprised how many appliances are constantly on standby mode with their little red light glowing. Switch off the plug, especially in rooms that might not get used as of often such as guest bedrooms or utility rooms.
Upgrade To Better
While you might not be planning to upgrade your appliances right now, energy efficiency is definitely something to consider for future purchases.
Final Quick Energy Saving Tips
Here are some final quick and easy energy-saving tips.
- Turn off the lights when you leave a room and encourage everyone in your house to do the same.
- Invest in a heated blanket or foot warmer to help keep you warm during the day instead of having the heating on.
- Draft proof windows and doors.
- Make sure radiators have been bled and deep cleaned to ensure they are as efficient as possible.
