You can save on your electricity costs
With the average bill a whopping 21% higher than it was at the start of last winter, taking steps to reduce your own energy costs can help the purse strings when the next letter lands on your mat.
So what can you do?
This week sees the launch of the Citizen’s Advice Bureau Big Energy Week, which will advise people how to spend less on heating and powering their home. By following some of the steps below, you should see a cut in your monthly payments.
- Contact your supplier to check you are you are on the best tariff and payment method for you. Monthly direct debit is on average £100 cheaper per year than paying by cash or cheque.
- Visit an accredited switching website to see if you could get your energy cheaper elsewhere.
- Insulate the walls and the loft of your home and you could save on average around £120 per year. All major gas and electricity suppliers are giving away free or discounted insulation to any household, not just their own customers. Ask if you’re eligible so you don’t miss out. That goes for heating oil customers too.
- Check you are not missing out on any benefits or tax credits that could up your income; your local Citizens Advice Bureau can help you with this.
- Using less energy could save you money, just by doing simple things like turning off lights and switching appliances off at the wall. Turning your thermostat down 1°C alone could cut your heating bill by £60 on average.
- If you are unable to pay your bills you should contact your energy supplier immediately as they have to help you manage your bills in a way that you can afford.
For more information visit http://www.bigenergyweek.org.uk%20
Natalie Mortimer