Choosing the best gas and electric companies is very important as it helps reduce energy tariff to cutting the amount of gas and electricity you use, this article will help you save money and make your home more comfortable. Some of the tips take no longer than a few seconds – so you can get started on saving money on your energy bill today.
1. Switch energy supplier – Select from the best gas and electric companies
If you have been on the same old energy supplier for a while and you think you are paying a lot, there’s a good chance you could save money by switching you gas and electric companies. It’s because most of the fixed energy deals last for about three years or less. If you don’t take any action when the deal expire, it means that you will be automatically moved on to the company’s standard default or temporary tariff. Research shows that you could save money per year by switching from the priciest Big Six standard tariff on the market to the cheapest available deal.
Follow this checklist below to guide you on cutting your energy bills.
- Check you’re on the company’s cheapest tariff
- Opt for paperless billing and manage your account online (some companies charge extra for paper bills)
- Pay by direct debit. This is usually cheaper than paying when you receive a bill
- Choose a dual-fuel deal if you want the same supplier for gas and electricity – this is often cheaper
2. Replace light bulbs
Energy-saving light bulbs can help you cut your energy bills easily. A LED light bulb consumer less energy and over its lifetime, it could reduce your energy bills, compared to your old-style bulb. Remember, energy-saving light bulbs last longer than traditional ones.
LEDs are the most energy-efficient light bulbs and use almost 90% less energy than traditional incandescent bulb. And if you already use energy-saving bulbs, always switch lights off when you leave the room.
3. Choose energy-efficient appliances
If you want to replace any of your appliances, you can cut your electricity bills by choosing the most energy-efficient model. Make sure to always check the visual indication of a product’s energy efficiency that shows its EU energy-efficiency rating.
Research shows that swapping your power-guzzling models of these kitchen appliances for energy-saving ones could save you up a whole lot.
- Washing machine
- Fridges and Freezers
- Tumble dryer
4. Get a new boiler
Almost everyone spend more on energy in a year on heating. So replacing an old and inefficient boiler with a modern energy-efficient one makes a big difference to your bill. If you upgrade an old G-rated gas boiler with a new A-rated condensing model, including a programmer, you could save some money.
5. Quick energy-saving tips
If you’re pushed for time or money, have done everything else on this list or simply want to get started cutting your energy bill straightaway, try these tips:
- Understand your energy bill. It’s the first step in knowing how much gas and electricity you’re using and where you can cut back. A smart meter will tell you how much energy you use in real-time, or you can buy an energy monitor.
- Don’t leave your gadgets on standby. This could save you alot.
- Fit a water-efficient showerhead. These keep your shower feeling powerful while cutting down on your hot water use.
- Only run your washing machine and dishwasher when they’re full, and use energy-efficient programmes. Dry your washing outside, rather than using your tumble dryer.