Saving Money on Energy Bills

 Energy costs can take up a significant part of a household budget, especially during colder months. While prices may fluctuate over time, there are practical steps you can take to reduce your energy usage and lower your bills.

Making small changes around the home can add up to meaningful savings throughout the year.

The first step to reducing your energy bills is understanding where your energy is being used.

Common high-energy appliances include:

• Heating systems
• Hot water systems
• Tumble dryers
• Electric ovens
• Dishwashers
• Washing machines
• Refrigerators and freezers

Identifying which appliances use the most energy can help you focus your efforts where they will have the greatest impact.

Heating is often one of the largest household energy costs.

You may be able to reduce costs by:

• Lowering your thermostat by a small amount.
• Heating only the rooms you use regularly.
• Closing curtains at night to retain heat.
• Keeping radiators clear of furniture.
• Using timer controls effectively.
• Turning heating off when no one is at home.

Small adjustments can help improve efficiency without significantly affecting comfort.

Hot water can account for a large portion of household energy use.

Consider:

• Taking shorter showers.
• Fixing dripping taps.
• Washing clothes at lower temperatures where suitable.
• Only boiling the water you need in the kettle.
• Using eco-settings on appliances where available.

These simple habits can help lower both energy and water bills.

Many appliances use more energy than necessary when not used efficiently.

Tips include:

Dishwashers

Tumble Dryers

Many electronic devices continue to use electricity when left on standby.

You can reduce energy use by:

• Turning off devices at the plug when not in use.
• Using smart power strips.
• Unplugging chargers when they are not needed.
• Turning off televisions, games consoles and computers completely rather than leaving them on standby.

These small savings can add up over time.

A well-insulated home requires less energy to heat.

Where possible, consider:

• Draught-proofing doors and windows.
• Using draft excluders.
• Closing internal doors to keep heat where it is needed.
• Ensuring loft insulation is adequate.
• Reporting insulation concerns to your landlord if you rent your home.

Even low-cost improvements can make a noticeable difference.

Energy suppliers offer a range of tariffs and payment options.

You may be able to save money by:

• Checking whether your current tariff remains suitable.
• Reviewing your energy bills regularly.
• Ensuring your supplier has accurate meter readings.
• Exploring available payment options.

Understanding your account can help avoid unnecessary charges and billing issues.

Providing regular meter readings helps ensure:

• Bills are accurate.
• You pay only for the energy you use.
• Unexpected large bills are avoided.

If you have a smart meter, readings may be sent automatically.

If you're finding it difficult to keep up with payments:

• Contact your energy supplier as soon as possible.
  
• Do not ignore bills or reminder letters.
• Ask about repayment plans.
• Ask whether any support schemes are available.
• Seek advice before debts increase.

Energy suppliers often have support available for customers experiencing financial hardship.

You may be entitled to help through schemes such as:

• Warm Home Discount
• Household Support Fund
• Winter Fuel Payment
• Cold Weather Payments
• Energy supplier hardship funds
• Local welfare assistance schemes

Eligibility varies depending on your circumstances.

You may be able to reduce your energy usage by:

Small changes made consistently can lead to noticeable savings over time.

Our advisors can help you:

• Find support with energy costs.
• Check whether you're eligible for grants and discounts.
• Create a realistic household budget.
• Access emergency financial support where needed.
• Improve your financial wellbeing.

Contact our team for free, confidential advice and support.