With energy bills soaring, homeowners across the UK are eager to find effective ways to cut costs, and several energy experts are stepping up with practical savings tips this winter.
The Alan Boswell Group has come up with some straightforward advice, emphasizing the transformative impact of proper insulation. They assert, "On a budget? Start with low-cost, high-impact upgrades like loft insulation (from £300) or draught-proofing with weatherstripping or caulk." These steps can significantly reduce heat loss, potentially saving households between £630 and £730 on their energy bills.
Further emphasizing the importance of keeping homes warm without exorbitant expenses, the group notes, "Adding thick curtains, blinds, or carpets and rugs can also reduce heat loss." These relatively inexpensive home improvements can yield considerable savings during the particularly chilly months.
Homeowners might also want to take advantage of programmes aimed at improving energy efficiency. The Home Upgrade Grant (HUG), for example, can cover up to 60% of insulation costs for qualifying households, making it easier for residents to tackle their energy expenditures. This initiative is reportedly available until March 2025, allowing time for those interested to apply and receive support.
Meanwhile, Labour Party initiatives highlight how the least energy-efficient homes are getting much-needed upgrades through government funding. The Energy Company Obligation (ECO) scheme is also noteworthy, targeting families who may find themselves struggling financially.
Heeding these calls to action is Kate Hall, a mother of two from Orpington. She shares her tips for effectively managing household appliances, particularly the fridge freezer, which is notorious for consuming energy continuously. Speaking to The Sun, Hall said, "One of the key things you need to do to keep your fridge freezer working efficiently, is to defrost it." Without regular defrosting, households could be paying up to £150 extra annually, according to energy experts.
Hall's preferred method for maintaining her appliance is simple yet efficient: "My go-to is a simple little Zanussi ice scraper currently priced at £4.20 on Amazon." Regular defrosting not only conserves energy but also boosts the appliance's efficiency.
Apart from maintaining the fridge freezer, Hall encourages checking if the door seals are intact. Using basic household items provides insight on the seals' efficiency. She explains, "Simply place a piece of paper in the edge of the door and close it. If it stays in place, then your fridge freezer is fine. But if it falls out or pulls out very easily, then the seal needs changing." Replacement seals can be sourced for under £20, allowing more savings over time.
Her recommendations go beyond merely taking care of the seals. Ideally, she suggests positioning appliances away from heat sources like radiators or sunlight to prevent them from working harder than necessary. Managing how food is placed inside can also save energy; Hall advises, "Always let both hot and warm items cool down first before putting them inside. You shouldn’t freeze large quantities of food all at once – no more than 10% of the appliance’s volume." This lesser load can help maintain optimal temperatures without excessive energy expenditure.
For those still finding it challenging to reduce their energy bills effectively, various financial aid options are available. Households can approach energy suppliers to ask about assistance if they are falling behind on payments. Some suppliers even offer repayment plans to help customers manage their financial circumstances comfortably.
Grants totaling up to £2,000 are available for customers facing difficulties, with companies such as British Gas and EDF leading the charge. It's worth noting, though, thousands of vulnerable households may be missing out on additional help services, like the Priority Services Register (PSR). This service provides much-needed support for the elderly or ill, including advance warnings of blackouts and free gas safety checks.
The Energy Saving Trust highlights additional simple measures homeowners can adopt, such as insulating hot water cylinders, which can save £40 annually and reduce carbon emissions by 160 kg. It emphasizes how small actions can accumulate over time, leading to significant overall savings. With these tips and schemes, households can make meaningful strides toward cutting energy bills, ensuring warmth without the hefty price tag this winter.