Money Matters: How to save on your energy bill this Energy Savers Week
In this week’s Money Matters column, Wrekin’s debt at energy manager Dan Bebbington shares some of the ways you can keep your energy bills down.
With energy costs still high, many households are feeling the strain of keeping their homes warm and their lights on.
This week is Energy Savers Week, a campaign led by the Energy Saving Trust, highlighting practical ways to reduce energy bills and access financial support.
Here are some of our top tips on how to save money by keeping your energy consumption at bay.
Start by looking at what small changes you could make around your home.
For example, consider switching to energy-efficient LED light bulbs which use up to 80% less energy, and draught-proofing doors and windows with inexpensive seals to prevent heat loss.
Lowering your thermostat by just 1°C can cut your heating bill by up to 10% without sacrificing comfort. Additionally, use timers on heating systems to warm your home only when needed.
Next, see if you can cut back on use of high-energy appliances. Wash clothes at 30°C instead of higher temperatures, air-dry laundry whenever possible, and avoid leaving devices on standby. Turning off appliances at the wall could save you around £50 a year.
Of course one way to bring bills down is switching to a cheaper energy tariff. It’s worth checking if you’re on the most affordable deal by using an online price comparison tool, or contact your supplier to discuss whether they can offer you a better rate.
You could also be eligible for financial support with energy costs. You may qualify for grants, discounts, or schemes like the Warm Home Discount. There’s also the Winter Fuel Payment if you’re of pension age and claiming Pension Credit or another eligible benefit.
There is free advice and support available to you if you need help with any of these things.
For tailored guidance, reach out to energy helplines offered by organisations like Citizens Advice or the Energy Saving Trust. They can help you navigate financial support, improve energy efficiency, and reduce costs.
Wrekin Housing Group customers can also contact our Money Matters team to access our energy advice service.