Energy bills to rise another 25%
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| Burning cash (C) Rex |
6. Green is good
One way you can control prices yourself is by being more energy-efficient. Simple measures will help to reduce your overall energy costs:
* Turning your thermostat down by just 1ºC could cut your heating bills by up to 10% and save you around £40 per year.
* Is your water too hot? Your cylinder thermostat shouldn't need to be set higher than 60ºC/140ºF.
* Always turn off the lights when you leave a room.
* Don't leave appliances on standby and remember not to leave appliances on charge unnecessarily.
* If you're not filling up the washing machine, tumble dryer or dishwasher, use the half-load or economy programme.
slash household bills
* Only boil as much water as you need (but remember to cover the element if you're using an electric kettle).
* A dripping hot water tap wastes energy and in one week wastes enough hot water to fill half a bath, so fix leaking taps and make sure they're fully turned off.
* Replace your light bulbs with energy-saving recommended bulbs: just one can reduce your lighting costs by up to £100 over the lifetime of the bulb - and they last up to 12 times longer than ordinary light bulbs.
* Close your curtains at dusk to stop heat escaping through the windows.
* Contact the Energy Saving Trust on 0800 512 012 or complete a questionnaire online for a free and impartial, personalised home energy check report telling you how you can save up to £300 a year on your household energy bills and advising you of any grants that may be available.
