Regulator Ofgem recently announced that the Energy Price Cap will rise in January, making the average bill £1,928 a year. But fear not, because with a few simple changes around your home, you can cut your bills by more than half, saving a whopping £1,273 a year. Energy expert Ben Gallizzi recommends a variety of cost-effective tips to help you reduce your energy consumption and keep your wallet happy. Let's take a look at some of the changes you can make in each room of your home.
Bedroom: Banish the Chills and Cut Costs
Keeping your bedroom warm and cozy while saving money is easier than you think. According to Which? magazine, covering your door with a towel is an effective way to block out draughts and reduce annual bills by £45. Additionally, using an electric blanket for just 30 minutes a night will only cost you 10p a week. Layering your bed with an extra duvet or blanket, as well as wearing socks or thermals, can also help you stay toasty without cranking up the thermostat. And don't forget to turn off lights when you leave the room, which could save you £20 over the course of a year.
Kitchen: Cut Costs and Cook Smart
The kitchen is often the biggest energy consumer in the house, but there are plenty of ways to make savings. Swapping your oven for a microwave can save you £60 a year, while using a slow cooker only costs 1p an hour. Fill your kettle with only the amount of water you need to make a cuppa, and you could reduce your annual electricity bill by £11. Defrosting your freezer regularly can save up to £150 a year, and using eco settings on your dishwasher can save you £80 annually. Don't forget to only run a full load in your washing machine to maximize energy efficiency and save an additional £27 a year. Lastly, ditch the tumble dryer and use a clothes airer instead to save £55 annually.
Bathroom: Shower Smart and Save
Heating water in the bathroom accounts for around a fifth of a typical household's energy bill. To reduce costs, swap baths for showers and limit your wash time to four minutes. This simple change can trim £65 off your yearly energy bill. If you have a water meter, giving up baths and taking shorter showers could save you even more. Switching to a water-efficient shower head can save another £60 a year on both energy and water bills. And for just £2, you can invest in a special water-saving bag for your toilet cistern, saving up to 10,000 litres of water annually and £30 if you have a meter.
Living Room: Keep Warm and Stay Cozy
In the living room, it's all about maximizing heat and minimizing energy waste. Closing doors and moving furniture away from external walls can help keep the room cozy. Installing tin foil or reflective panels behind radiators can bounce 100% of the heat back into the room, saving around £25 on annual bills. If you have a fireplace you don't use, a chimney draught excluder can save you £65 a year. Instead of heating the entire room, consider using an electric blanket to warm yourself, potentially saving around £300 a year. Lastly, switch all the lightbulbs in your home to LEDs to save £60 a year, and remember to turn off TVs and other devices instead of leaving them on standby to save an additional £55 annually.
By making these simple changes in each room of your home, you can significantly reduce your energy bills and keep more money in your pocket. So why wait? Start implementing these cost-cutting tips today and enjoy a warmer, cozier, and more energy-efficient home this winter.
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