It’s no secret that energy bills and prices have been rising quickly recently due to unprecedented rises in wholesale gas and electricity prices and a global supply issue.
Few of us could have failed to notice the news reporting on bills shooting through the roof in an incredibly short period of time and in the context of a wider cost of living crisis this could cripple many people, including renters.
With national insurance and taxes rising from April this is all contributing to potential issues coming down the road for renters and workers alike. Whilst our advice on money management and finding the cheapest energy supplier probably isn’t much use to you, we can certainly give you some advice on how to reduce your bills and go greener in the process.
1. Check your Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) online
One quick and effective way to understand the challenges facing your home, and heating it effectively is to see online how well it performs in energy efficiency, with grades from A – the best, to G – the worst.
If you’re looking to move, then you’re much better off finding an energy efficient home.
2. Try and avoid gas boilers
Gas boilers, broadly, simply aren’t as energy efficient as electric boilers. So if you’re looking for a new home then try and find somewhere with an electric boiler, and if you live somewhere with a gas boiler it may be worth reaching out to your landlord to see if they’ll switch it.
3. Ask for a smart meter
Whilst a smart meter won’t reduce your bills all by itself it certainly helps in showing you what you’re spending on a day-to-day basis, which makes it much easier for you to spot simple mistakes you might be making such as leaving lights on, running the boiler too long, etc.
You can ask your supplier to install a smart meter and they should offer it to you for free if you’re eligible.
4. Replace appliances where possible
Things like old kettles, washing machines and microwaves may be using more energy and costing you more money than if you replaced them for something newer and more energy efficient.
Of course, not everybody is in a position to simply buy all new appliances, but where possible look to buy energy efficient replacements.
5. Watch your water
Shower rather than have a bath, try to wash your clothes at a lower temperature, try to use less water when washing the pots.
There are lots of simple ways around the house to try and reduce your water usage. As much as it’s true that you’ll be reducing your water bills at the same time, you’re actually reducing your heating and electricity bills as you’re not having to heat the water which provides a double whammy scenario to your pocket if you overuse them.
