Energy bills are set to rise with the upcoming price cap adjustment, leaving many households concerned about managing their costs this winter. As colder months approach, practical solutions to curb expenses become increasingly vital for families and individuals alike.
Understanding the Price Cap Increase
The energy price cap, regulated by Ofgem, limits the maximum price suppliers can charge for each unit of energy. The 1.2% hike translates to an additional £21 annually for the average household, impacting millions. Vulnerable groups, particularly the elderly, face heightened risks due to limited resources and increased heating needs during winter.
Expert Recommendations to Save on Energy Bills
Heating and energy professionals recommend practical measures, ranging from simple adjustments to advanced technological upgrades. These tips, when implemented consistently, can result in noticeable savings.
Adjust Boiler Settings
Gordon Wallis, a heating expert at Your NRG, suggests optimising combi boiler settings to reduce energy consumption.
- Lower temperature settings: Reducing heat and hot water temperatures can significantly cut energy usage.
- Smart thermostats: Devices that control temperatures efficiently help optimise heating cycles.
“Many homeowners overlook boiler settings, but simple adjustments can enhance efficiency and save money,” Wallis noted.
Annual Boiler Servicing
Routine boiler maintenance ensures efficiency and prevents costly repairs. According to Wallis :
- Regular servicing safeguards system longevity.
- It optimises performance and reduces unexpected expenses.
Utilise Zoned Heating
Smart thermostats and zoned heating systems allow households to customise temperatures in specific areas, preventing unnecessary energy usage.
“Zoned heating blends comfort with savings, letting you heat only the spaces you use,” Wallis emphasised.
Prioritise Home Insulation
Proper insulation minimises heat transfer, reducing reliance on heating systems.
- Insulation for walls, floors, and ceilings ensures consistent warmth.
- This investment enhances both comfort and energy efficiency.
Maximise Radiator Efficiency
Maintaining radiators is another critical step. Wallis advises :
- Clean systems regularly: Power flushing removes sludge buildup, ensuring even heating and prolonged boiler lifespan.
- Set radiator valves correctly: Adjust thermostatic radiator valves to avoid heating unused areas.
Other Energy-Saving Practices
- Lower washing machine temperatures: Washing clothes at 30°C is energy-efficient and environmentally friendly.
- Turn off unused radiators : Heating only occupied rooms during colder months reduces wastage.
Quantifying Potential Savings
The cumulative effect of these strategies can be substantial :
- Lowering boiler temperatures can save up to £80 annually.
- Insulation upgrades offer long-term savings of £100–£200 per year.
- Smart thermostats and zoned heating may cut heating bills by 10–15%.
Balancing Comfort and Efficiency
Gareth Kloet, an energy expert at Go Compare, underscores the importance of consistent practices.
“Small changes may not seem impactful, but their long-term savings are significant,” Kloet explained.
