Simple steps to take the sting out of price rises
The current energy crisis, see left, has got people concerned about the coming winter and paying for a big increase in their bills.
I won’t sugar coat it – things are going to get more expensive. As Harvey writes, at the moment, it seems likely that more smaller energy firms will go under, so energy switching services are largely suspended. And the latest energy price cap comes in to play which means most businesses will put up prices.
It makes sense to wait and see what happens next – switching may still be an option.
I’ve written a guide for people who are concerned about all things energy. Go to news.resolver.co.uk/ energy-switchingand-rising-pricesyour-rights/
But there are things you can do to cut energy consumption. Try these tips and also give your energy provider regular meter readings so you don’t get hit with a big bill based on bad estimates.
The big offenders for energy consumption in your home are ‘wet appliances’ the term for the goods in the kitchen that use water, like dishwashers and washing machines. Try to only use them for full loads, learn more about what ‘eco mode’ is and drop the heat as low as it will go. These machines have to heat the water so the higher the temperature, the higher your costs.
Turn down the thermostat
Getting a smart thermostat can save you loads, but if money is tight then that just isn’t feasible. But did you know that turning down the thermostat by just one notch can save you around £80 a year?
SWITCH OFF STANDBY
Most electrical items can be switched off at the plug, though you might want to leave the smart TV/satellite/cable box plugged in if you don’t want to lose your favourite recordings and cause a family riot!
CLEAR OUT THE FRIDGE
If your fridge is stuffed it requires more energy to do its job, so keep it relatively clear and keep the temperature at an appropriate level. Experts advise a level of 1-5°C – take the temperature though rather than rely on the in-built dial.
Your parents were right – turn off those lights!
Or even better, replace bulbs with LEDs as you could save up to £50 a year. If it’s too expensive to do in one go, replace as the old ones die.
Get a smart meter
Yes, this did go horribly wrong last time round, so the Government’s roll out of smart meters was scaled back while the technology was sorted out. The second generation of smart meters are available now, which are compatible with different providers of energy, so you can switch if you want (always check first though). Smart meters make it easier to monitor your energy consumption and keep on top of your bills.
Save money on energy and water
The Energy Saving Trust has a ton of really great advice on its website. A great one is fitting an energy efficient shower head and cutting down shower time by just one minute per person. A family of four could save £28 off their energy bills and around £47 off their water bills with a meter.
Be a good neighbour
Many of the people who have contacted me with concerns about their energy bills are older or struggling financially. If you know someone in this situation, then pop round and check on them.
There are loads of support schemes available through your energy provider.
These can result in hefty discounts to bills through the Priority Services Register (ofgem. gov.uk/information-consumers/ energy-advice-households/ getting-extra-help-priorityservices-register). If you are struggling financially, there are lots of options available too – but speak up now and seek help.
Get help with all things energy at Resolver for free. resolver.co.uk