It’s no secret the cost of living is rising in the UK, and one thing that’s become a particular concern for Brits is our sky-high energy bills. As oil and gas prices rocket, reports suggest bills could be set to increase even more, with the energy industry indicating some households could be paying £3,000 a year.
With concern mounting across the country, many are keen to find solutions to help lessen the impact of the impending hike. While there’s nothing that can be done to stop energy prices from rising, there are some things you can do to reduce the amount of energy you use in your home.
Here, we outline some tips for making your home more energy-efficient.
Insulate your walls
Approximately a third of the heat lost from an uninsulated home escapes through the walls. Adding insulation will help your home retain heat during the colder months, meaning you can reduce the length of time your heating is on.
While insulation can be costly, it’s likely you will save a significant amount on the cost of heating your home, so consider it an investment that will benefit you for years to come.
Install solar panels
Solar panels are one of the most effective ways to make your home more energy-efficient. If you have the space, you may want to consider investing. A few years ago, solar panel installation in the UK cost an extortionate amount. However, the cost has reduced significantly, and you could even be paid for the extra energy you produce but don’t use under the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG).
Having solar panels installed is a big financial decision in the short term, so ensure you carefully weigh up the initial cost with your other outgoings prior to getting the work done.
Get a smart meter
Having a smart meter installed in your home will allow you to track your energy usage in real-time. This will make it easier to see exactly how you use your energy and help you spot ways to reduce your energy costs.
A smart meter will also send meter readings to your energy provider automatically, saving you from needing to take a reading and submit it each month. Most energy companies will provide and install a smart meter free of charge, so it’s worth checking if you can get one.
Turn off standby appliances
Remember to switch off appliances at the wall, rather than just on the device itself. It would also be beneficial to keep an eye on appliances that are charging, such as laptops, tablets, mobile phones, etc. According to the Energy Saving Trust, you could save around £55 a year by switching off appliances properly, with this potential saving set to rise alongside energy prices.
