Ready to make some home energy savings? Then you need to check out Big Energy Saving Week. Here’s what the campaign’s all about, and some of our top tips for cutting your fuel bills this year.
Big Energy Saving Week
Big Energy Saving Week is a national campaign run by Citizens Advice and the Energy Saving Trust. It runs from 18 January to 24 January 2021, and it’s all about helping you spend less on your utility bills.
Whether you need help switching providers or you just want to cut your energy consumption, it’s worth checking out the advice on offer.
Big Energy Saving Week is not just about using less energy. It’s also about helping you save money and stay on top of your bills, whether it means accessing financial advice or applying for a boiler grant.
So, if you’re not sure what financial support you’re entitled to, this is the campaign for you. In the meantime, though, here are 10 things you can do to quickly cut your home energy bills.
1. Turn off standby
Don’t leave devices like TVs, laptops and other computers on standby all night. According to the Energy Saving Trust, you can save up to £90 a year just by switching off appliances at the wall!
2. Change light bulbs
We’re all home more often right now, which means the lights are on all day. The good news? LED bulbs use 90% less energy than traditional bulbs, so make quick energy savings by making the change.
3. Do less laundry
In other words, don’t wash small loads. Wait until you’ve got a full load so you’re running fewer wash cycles.
Do you need to tumble dry everything? Consider air-drying smaller items to conserve energy and save money.
4. Draught-proof your home
You can save up to £30 a year just by draught-proofing doors and windows, according to the Energy Saving Trust. Just buy some cheap and cheerful draught-proofing strips and secure them around door and window frames.
5. Switch energy providers
When was the last time you changed energy providers or even checked which tariff you’re on?
- Check you’re on the cheapest energy tariff by shopping around.
- Consider switching providers once a year to make sure you get the best deal available.
6. Check for energy discounts
This is what Big Energy Saving Week is all about – promoting discounts! Here are just some of the discounts and grants you might be entitled to:
- The Warm Home Discount is available everywhere except Northern Ireland.
- If you’re in England, check out the Green Homes Grant.
- In Wales? Give Nest a call on 0808 808 2244 to learn about home energy packages.
Contact Citizens Advice to find out more about what’s on offer.
7. Get a smart meter
Check if your supplier offers smart meters. These little devices show you which appliances use the most energy (such as your kettle) so you can take steps to cut costs.
Can’t get a smart meter? Just try to limit how many times you do things like boil the kettle or use a hairdryer. Even small changes add up over time.
8. Upgrade your appliances
Got old white goods like freezers and washing machines? Chances are, they’re not the most energy-efficient models out there.
Make energy savings by upgrading your kitchen appliances for newer options.
9. Insulate your home
If you can afford it, invest in some home insulation. While you’re paying more upfront, here’s what you could save each year:
- Loft insulation: up to £180
- Wall insulation: up to £140
10. Install a new boiler
This is the most expensive option, but it’s worth knowing about.
According to the Energy Saving Trust, you can save over £300 a year by switching an old gas boiler for a modern condenser model. These savings really add up over time, although you’ll need at least £1,000 to buy the boiler and pay for installation.
Remember to check whether you’re eligible for a boiler grant before you switch.
Takeaway
We could all do with saving money right now, and Big Energy Saving Week is a great time to shop around for better energy deals and discounts. We typically use more energy in the winter months, so take action now before the bills start adding up!
Just remember, though, that energy saving advice is available year-round. If you’re worried about paying your bills, or you need help accessing financial support, contact Citizens Advice or the Energy Saving Trust at any time.
