In the UK, the cost of power is a huge headache for everyone. According to the Citizens Advice Bureau, gas and electricity prices have risen eight times faster than earnings. They predict that this trend will continue for at least the next few years.
Naturally, this fact is prompting many people to be more conscious of how they use power in both their homes and businesses. Here are our tips to help you to save money on energy bills.
Turn it off
One of the best ways to save money is to turn things off when you are not using them. That includes turning things off standby. The average household or business can knock 8% off their electricity bills by taking this simple step.
Washing at 30°C, only boiling just enough water and using a bowl for hot water rather than leaving the tap running helps too. Most homes can save an additional £43 a year just by following these simple tips.
Fitting thermostatic radiator valves in each room is a good idea. Individual timers for the heating in each room will also stop you from wasting power. It is also important to have a high efficiency boiler to operate the heating and if possible a separate unvented pressurised cylinder for the hot water supply.
Energy saving products
Next time you need a new electrical appliance check the energy rating before you buy. This is especially important with appliances like your fridge, which is always on.
Other tips include switching to a solar charger for your phones, or charging them in your car. Switch to low energy bulbs if you have not already done so.
Know what you use
Having a smart meter installed that shows you how much power you are using as you use it is a great way to educate everyone in the family about how to save power. When you see the consumption going up, we guarantee everyone will be whizzing around trying to work out what is eating the power.
Insulation
Making sure that your home or business premises are properly insulated is essential. We cover this in more detail elsewhere on the blog, but felt it needed a mention here.
Look for the best deals
On a regular basis, review how much you are paying for power and shop around for a better deal. You can sign up for fixed deals, which will keep the cost at the same level for the length of the contract.
Combine all of these tips and you will save literally hundreds. The more the cost of power rises the more money you will be saving.