This winter will be exceptionally tough on most people. With energy bills rising, vulnerable people such as pensioners and those in low income families will have to make the difficult decision to ‘heat or eat’. There are lots of simple ways you can make this winter less difficult and save money, here are some tips to make it through the big chill.
1. Switch Energy Suppliers
Whilst it may sound simple, in a recent survey a shocking 45% of people had never changed their energy supplier and a further 59% has never enquired about changing their tariff. Energy bills are incredibly confusing, unlike other bills which are measured easily, we seem to take energy bills at face value and assume everyone pays the same. There are also special deals which will entitle certain people to lower energy bills. If you are struggling with your heating bill, call your provider and inform them that you might need to make a change. Energy firms have a duty of care to their customers and have to help anyone who is finding making payments difficult.
2. Replace Light Bulbs
A small change is a big change. Energy saving light bulbs have gotten a bad rap for being dim but in reality, they are exactly the same as regular light bulbs except that they can save you money. Remember, energy saving light bulbs also last longer the traditional ones, with CFL’s lasting 6,000 hours and LEDs claim to last around 25,000 hours, compare this with traditional light bulbs that tend to last 1000 hours. Changing your light bulbs is simple and will save you money in the long run, a typical house can look to save around £60 a year just by changing their lights.
3. Replace Your Boiler
This tip revolves around the idea that by spending money in the present, you’ll save money in the future. Replacing an old gas boiler with a new condescending model could cut an average of £310 from your gas bill each year. Replacing a boiler is expensive and could fetch around £2,500 so if you are looking to buckle down and save money now, then it’s not worth it until you have completely used your old one. However, if you think you want to save money in the future then it is a great and simple way to save a lot of money year on year. Remember to scout out a good efficient boiler and get insurance on it, Energy Helpline has great deals on heating insurance.
Saving money in the winter can seem like an uphill struggle. Ask for help from companies and you shall receive it, ask for the best deal and scout around for the best alternatives and you can live through the winter in comfort and you might save a few pennies.