How to save on your energy spend

How to save on your energy spend

How to save on your energy spend

Energy bills have been a real drain on our finances and although we saw prices come down slightly in July, energy prices went up by 10% for a typical household from 1 October to 31 December 2024.

Electricity and gas prices are set by Ofgem's energy price cap, which determines the maximum unit rates firms can charge for standard variable tariffs- though your overall bill depends on how much energy you actually use.

At the time of writing, it was predicted that the average household energy bill could rise by around 10% in October when the next energy price cap for October to December kicks in.

Make small changes to reduce your energy

Efficient Double Glazed Windows Reduces Heat Loss

The air trapped inside your window typically acts as an insulator and does not stop heat loss being conducted from the inner glass plane to the outer glass plane but does reduce it by a significant percentage.

As the gap is very narrow, air cannot circulate freely, meaning your double glazing reduces heat loss by convection as well.

Findings have shown that around 60% total heat loss can be reduced through double or triple glazed windows.

If you feel like your windows aren’t giving you the benefits you'd expect, it's often a sign that your old windows may need replaced.

Energy Guzzlers

Washing machines, tumble dryers and dishwashers are the most energy-draining appliances in your home.

But you can reduce the cost with these tricks: drop your dishwasher run by one a week, and save £18 a year; wash your

laundry at 30 degrees and reduce usage by one a week to save £22 a year (so, if you do 10 washes each week, try getting by with just nine); avoid using the tumble dryer and save £45 a year.*

Energy-Efficient Appliances

If you are buying a new appliance, it is now a lot easier to compare products, costs and energy efficiency with a modern labelling system for TVS, fridges, dishwashers, washing machines and tumble dryers.

The labels are coloured bars and replace the older rating systems of A+++ to G, with A+++ being the most efficient.

Buying an A-rated appliance compared to a D-rated one could save you around bill a year, according to the Energy Saving Trust.

up. you can save money by using a washing-up bowl instead of running the tap.

Use Less Water

We all love a long hot shower, but limiting it to just four minutes could save you £50 a year on your energy bill.

You can also consider replacing your shower head with a water-efficient one - a four-person household could save £38 a year on water heating costs with this simple switch. And if you're washing up you can save money by using a washing-up bowl instead of running the tap.

Check your Heating

If you haven't yet turned on the heating, then you may soon have to. You can keep heating costs low by turning down the thermostat by just one degree, reducing your annual bill by around £60. Another way to reduce your heating bill is by keeping doors closed and only heating the rooms you are using. And if you draught-proof windows, floors and doors, you'll save around £70 a year.