4 ways to save money on your energy bills this winter

During the coronavirus pandemic (Covid-19) we are spending a lot more time in our homes. With the latest Covid-19 government restrictions, our homes have become not only a space to unwind and relax, but for many of us a workspace and a place where we home school our children. On top of this lifestyle change, much of the UK is being hit by colder winter months.

Due to the economic impact Covid-19 is having on many of us, saving on your energy bills has never been more important. In this blog, we highlight 4 ways you can save money and in turn help reduce your carbon footprint.

1. Think heat loss

We fully understand just how frustrating those ever-increasing energy bills can be, but there are things we can all do to save money on our energy bills. One of which, is thinking about the fabric of our home and reducing the heat loss.

According to the Energy Saving Trust (EST), around one-third of the heat loss from most homes is through the walls and a quarter of heat is lost through the roof in an uninsulated home.

The heat will always flow from a warm area to a colder one, so consequently, during the winter months, the colder it is outside, the quicker the heat will escape.

By insulating your cavity wall and loft, you can save up to £315 per year on your energy bills.

There are other energy-saving measures worth investigating. Your home may be suitable for underfloor insulation, internal wall insulation and/or room in roof insulation.

2. Heating doesn’t have to be costly

Your boiler can account for around 55% of the amount you spend on your annual energy bills, so an A-rated energy efficient boiler really does make economic sense. According to the Energy Saving Trust (EST), you could save up to £205 a year on your energy bills.
If you already have an energy-efficient A-rated boiler, ensure you use your programmer and thermostat to control your heating and the temperature of your home. With most people spending a lot more time at home, it makes sense to think about the times you program your heating to come on. Turning the temperature down slightly can save both energy and money.

3. Energy-efficient light bulbs

Winter brings about shorter daylight hours and the increase in switching our lighting on in our homes. Additionally, a lot of us are spending more time at home and we may feel a little worried about what our energy bill is going to be at the end of the month.

According to the Energy Saving Trust (EST), you can save up to £3 per year for every traditional halogen bulb you switch to a bright LED bulb.

4. Compare your energy bill

Speak with your energy provider to discuss your energy bills and to check the tariff you are on. You can also compare what you are paying to other energy providers, by visiting energy switching sites.