Understanding Energy-Saving Techniques to Lower Utility Costs
Managing energy costs can feel overwhelming, but there are simple techniques to reduce utility bills and resources to help. This step-by-step guide explains practical energy-saving steps, government and council initiatives, and where to get further support.
Understand Why Saving Energy Is Important
Saving energy helps:
Lower Bills: Reducing how much energy you use lowers your costs.
Help the Environment: Using less energy reduces carbon emissions.
Improve Comfort: Energy efficiency can make your home warmer and reduce drafts.
Start with Small, Everyday Energy-Saving Actions
These simple habits can help reduce your energy use:
Heating and Hot Water:
Turn Down Your Thermostat: Lowering your thermostat by just 1°C can save around £80 a year.
Example: If your thermostat is set to 21°C, try 20°C instead.
Use a Timer: Set your heating to come on only when you need it.
Example: Use a timer to heat your home for two hours in the morning and evening.
Bleed Radiators: Release trapped air to help radiators heat more efficiently.
Electrical Appliances:
Unplug Devices: Turn off appliances at the wall instead of leaving them on standby.
Example: Unplug your TV or charger when not in use.
Use Energy-Efficient Bulbs: LED bulbs use up to 90% less energy than traditional bulbs.
Example: Replace one bulb at a time with LEDs to spread the cost.
Laundry and Washing:
Air-Dry Clothes: Avoid tumble dryers where possible and dry clothes on a rack.
Wash Clothes at 30°C: Washing at lower temperatures saves energy.
Example: Use the "eco" setting on your washing machine.
Cooking:
Use Lids on Pans: This traps heat and cooks food faster, using less energy.
Batch Cook: Cook meals in bulk and reheat them, saving oven energy.
Make Your Home More Energy Efficient
These changes may involve some cost but can lead to significant long-term savings.
Insulation:
Draught Proofing: Use draught excluders or sealant around doors, windows, and letterboxes.
Example: A £5 door draft stopper can reduce heat loss.
Loft and Wall Insulation: Proper insulation can save up to £300 per year.
Windows:
Use Thick Curtains: Close curtains at dusk to keep heat in.
Example: Thermal curtains cost around £40–£50 but can save on heating bills.
Secondary Glazing: Add a plastic film over single-pane windows to reduce heat loss.
Smart Devices:
Smart Thermostats: Control your heating from your phone to avoid wasting energy.
Example: Hive or Nest thermostats can save you up to £150 annually.
Use Tools and Apps to Monitor Energy Use
Recommended Apps:
Hugo: Links to your smart meter to track your energy use in real time.
Loop: Helps identify ways to reduce electricity usage.
Uswitch: Compare energy deals to ensure you’re on the best tariff.
Access UK Government and Council Initiatives
There are schemes in the UK to help with the cost of energy and improve home efficiency.
Energy Bills Support Scheme (EBSS):
Provides discounts on energy bills during the winter months.
You don’t need to apply; your energy provider applies the discount automatically.
Warm Home Discount Scheme:
A £150 discount for eligible households on low income.
Contact your energy supplier or visit www.gov.uk/the-warm-home-discount-scheme.
Cold Weather Payment:
£25 payment for each 7-day period of very cold weather between November and March.
Automatically paid to people on certain benefits.
Energy Company Obligation (ECO4):
Free or subsidised insulation and boiler replacements for low-income households.
Apply through your energy supplier or check www.simpleenergyadvice.org.uk.
Local Council Schemes:
Many councils offer grants for insulation or heating upgrades.
Example: Contact your council’s Housing or Energy Efficiency team to ask about available support.
Budgeting Help for Energy Costs
If you struggle to pay your energy bills, there are options:
Contact Your Supplier:
Ask about payment plans, hardship funds, or prepayment meters.
Charities and Organisations:
National Energy Action (NEA): Advice on energy efficiency and grants.
Citizens Advice: Help with energy bills and payment disputes.
Turn2Us: Grants and financial support for energy costs.
Understand and Manage Your Energy Tariff
What is an Energy Tariff?
An energy tariff determines how much you pay for electricity and gas.
How to Find the Best Tariff:
Use comparison websites like Uswitch or Compare the Market.
Contact your energy supplier to ask about cheaper options.
Fixed vs. Variable Tariffs:
Fixed Tariff: Your rate stays the same for a set period, providing stability.
Variable Tariff: Rates can change, often in line with market prices.
Plan for Emergencies
If you can’t pay your energy bills:
Contact Your Supplier Immediately:
Most companies will work out a manageable payment plan.
Apply for Emergency Credit:
Prepayment meters often include £5–£10 emergency credit.
Seek Professional Help
If you feel overwhelmed, reach out to organisations that specialise in energy advice.
Who to Contact:
Citizens Advice: Free energy-saving advice and help with disputes.
Simple Energy Advice: Government-backed service for energy efficiency tips.
Energy Saving Trust: Advice on energy-efficient home improvements.
Practice Self-Compassion
Energy costs can be stressful, but small changes add up over time. Celebrate your progress, even if it’s just switching to energy-efficient bulbs or calling your council for support.
Example of Progress:
Month 1: Install draught excluders.
Month 2: Contact your supplier about the Warm Home Discount.
Month 3: Apply for local council grants for insulation.
Final Thoughts
By following these steps, you can reduce your energy costs and access the support you’re entitled to. Use the recommended apps, resources, and organisations to help make managing energy bills easier and more accessible.