It’s no secret that energy prices are rising and many of us are concerned. As winter rolls around, we’ll all be looking for ways to reduce our energy costs to avoid high bills. If you’re wondering how you can lower your energy bills this winter, keep reading.
How much energy does an average household use?
In an average home with four occupants, 13 appliances are being used at peak times. This is in comparison to an average of only four appliances in 1990. However, while we are now using more appliances, with the introduction of laptops, tablets and mobile phones, we are still using roughly the same amount of energy as in 1990. That’s because our gadgets and appliances have become more efficient over the years. Despite this, there’s still a lot you can do to save some money.
Turn off standby appliances
One thing you can do is make sure you switch off standby appliances. Rather than just switching off with the remote or keeping things plugged in, turn them off at the plug. Just by doing this, you can save around £30 per year. These little red lights that indicate an appliance is off still mean the appliance is using energy. So when something isn’t in use, turn it off.
Install a smart thermostat
A smart thermostat can save you around £75 per year. They are little devices that allow you to have better control of your heating. You can choose when and where your heating is functioning so you only need to heat the rooms you’re using when you’re actually using them. You can also use your phone to control your heating, this means you can kickstart your heating just before you get home – so you don’t need to come home to a cold house.
Turn down your thermostat
Now you’ve installed your smart thermostat, put it to good use. By just turning your heating down by one degree, you can save up to £80 a year – and you probably won’t even notice that extra degree. Half of the energy bills are from heating and hot water costs, so reducing the amount you use, even only slightly, will make a big difference.
Install a new boiler
Over the years boilers have become more and more efficient, meaning older boilers cost way more to run than new ones. You may even be eligible for an ECO heating grant to upgrade your boiler meaning you can get more heat for free. Look for an A-rated condensing boiler with a programmer, room thermostat and thermostatic radiator controls. Based on fuel prices in 2019, a new A-rated boiler could save you up to £300 a year.
Worried about the financial burden of energy bills? Find out if you are eligible for 100% FREE energy efficiency upgrades today with UK Energy Management. We’ll help you learn more about eco-heating grants.
