3rd January 2019
Take control of your heating costs before the “Beast from the East” returns
As the “Beast from the East” is set to return bringing high winds, snow and freezing temperatures. It is worth all of us thinking about how we are going to save money on our heating bills.
Energy Bills
Energy prices have risen sharply in recent years and according to Ofgem (the energy regulator)
- The average dual fuel energy bill is £1,221 per year (based on average of dual fuel, direct debit and available paper tariffs from the six large suppliers at November 2018).
- With the cheapest tariffs available being £946 per year (Based on dual fuel average available paperless tariff paid by direct debit with typical domestic consumption values at November 2018).
- Which shows that customers could save up to £275 by shopping around.
People often assume that shopping around for a better energy deal won’t make that much difference and is therefore not worth the hassle. But the difference in price between the best and the worse energy tariffs can be quite significant if we look at the example above, which shows a potential saving of £275, you can't tell me that is not worth a few minutes of your day to compare energy prices. .
With the energy switching guarantee, that guarantees a reliable and hassle-free switch in just twenty-one days with companies that have signed up, there isn’t a better time to switch.
Even if you have switched before you are still likely to save money by switching again especially if it has been a few years since you last switched provider as you may have been reverted back on to their standard variable tariff once your initial contract expired.
Check your boiler
A boiler breaking down during a cold spell can leave you freezing in your own home. Stay ahead of the weather and make sure your boiler is working properly before the “beast from the east” kicks in. We would recommend that you get your boiler serviced each year not only will this give you peace of mind but it will ensure that your boiler is operating more efficiently which in turn will save you money on your heating bills.
Insulate
Insulating your home will save money as well as make your house warmer. Remember simple things like fitting draught excluders to your doors, letterbox brushes, chimney balloons and keyhole covers can be quick and easy ways to help you cut down on your energy bills.
Good lined curtains will also help keep out drafts from your windows. You can even line them yourself using old blankets to save even more money.
Check the location of your furniture
Loads of people move items such as sofas and cupboards in front of radiators during the summer as the heating isn’t in use. You now need to move these items away from the radiators again so that the heat can come into the room to warm the house.
Use the controls
Heating controls are there to be used. Go around your home and check the thermostatic radiator values in each room and adjust accordingly in each room based on your usage. If you’re not using that room then you don’t need the value open on full blast.
If you’re into your technology you may be able to set the room temperatures from your phone, or reset your timers when your out and about so not to be heating your home when there is nobody home.
Check your entitlements
People on low incomes and or benefits may be entitled to help with their energy bills - check the Citizens Advice Bureau for more information.
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