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Living costs are rising and we know this is a real worry for a lot of people, particularly when it comes to rising energy prices. We’ve compiled some top tips to help you make your home more energy efficient and to help to reduce the amount you’re paying on your energy bills.

Getting the most out of your money

Make sure you’re paying the best rate

If you’re not sure which energy tariff you’re on, contact your energy supplier to find out. If you’ve fallen behind your energy bills, contact your supplier as soon as possible to discuss it with them so they can find a suitable solution for you – or contact us for some further advice.

Maximise your income

Make sure you’re claiming the correct benefits and that you’re getting everything you’re entitled to by taking a look at our benefits calculator

Look into energy discounts and support

There are multiple energy discounts available, so it’s important to check whether you’re eligible to receive any of the following:

  • Warm Home Discount (a discount of £140 on electricity bills over Winter)
  • Winter Fuel Payment (you could get between £100 and £300 to help you pay your heating bills)
  • Cold Weather Payment (£25 per qualifying week)

To find out more, have a look at the Government’s website for further information.

Don’t forget to take regular meter readings

Taking and submitting meter readings regularly will help you to keep an eye on your energy usage and keep your bills accurate.

Check if you can join the Priority Services Register

If you sign up to a Priority Services Register, you could receive extra help from your energy supplier in the instance of a power cut. It can also provide priority support in an emergency and meter reading services. Find out if you’re eligible here.

Know where to turn in the event your supplier goes bust

The most important thing to do if your energy supplier goes out of business is to remain calm. Ofgem will automatically move you to a new supplier. This usually happens within a few weeks of your energy supplier announcing they’re no longer operating.

If you paid your previous energy supplier by Direct Debit, don’t cancel it and don’t try to switch tariff or supplier until your account has been moved to the new supplier and you’ve received confirmation from them. If you try to move or cancel the Direct Debit, it could be harder for you to get any money that you’re owed if you switch. Ofgem’s safety net will protect your supply and credit balance.

Read more on the steps you should take here.

Stay on top of gas safety checks

If you’re renting, your landlord, housing association or council is responsible for arranging a gas safety check every year. If you’re a homeowner, check with your supplier to see if you could be eligible for a free annual gas safety check.

 

Making your home more energy efficient

Making a few small changes to make your home more energy efficient could reduce your energy bill. There are some things that you can do yourself to help reduce costs in your home:

  • Use draught-proofing measures
  • Close your curtains at dusk to keep the heat in
  • Unplug electrical items you aren’t using
  • Use LED bulbs
  • Make sure your boiler and radiators are working efficiently and check your heating controls, timers and thermostats are set for when you need them
  • Fit your hot water cylinder with a cylinder jacket
  • Put reflective panels behind radiators to prevent the heat being lost through external walls

Help with energy improvement costs

Contact your energy supplier to see if you qualify for any help with improvement costs, or your local council to see if you’re eligible for any local schemes operating in your area.

If you’re renting, your landlord has a responsibility to ensure your home is safe and habitable. If you’re worried, ask your local council to assess your home to ensure it complies with health and safety standards. If and any hazards are identified, your landlord must pay for these improvements.

For further advice on money-saving tips and improving your financial wellbeing, head over to our Financial Wellbeing Hub.