Energy bills for the average household are poised to climb further, with a £100 annual increase come April due to Ofgem’s new cap.
With the current average heating bill in the UK standing at £106 per month, this hike adds additional strain on countless individuals’ finances, particularly amidst the ongoing cost of living crisis coupled with this bill increase.
With this in mind, Joshua Houston, a boiler specialist at GreenMatch, has some straightforward advice to mitigate some of the impact from the rising energy costs, including one easy technique that could save you £120 annually.
Joshua remarked: “The increase in heating costs leaves us with less disposable income. But there are ways in which you can save a little bit of money.”
Lower the boiler temperature
By decreasing your boiler’s ‘flow temperature’, you could see savings of £120 each year. Joshua notes: “It allows your boiler to work more efficiently by using less energy to heat your home. You will also likely not notice a difference if the temperature is reduced by between 3-5C.”
This suggestion could slash about 10% off your monthly bill, which amounts to £10, and given the minimal effort involved, it’s an incredibly simple method to retain more cash in your wallet.
Insulate your boiler
Insulating your boiler is a smart move to retain heat, leading to less fuel used for generating steam. You can snag an insulation jacket for as little as £20, and it’ll save you about £10 monthly, meaning you’ll recoup the cost in just a few months.
These savings amount to £120 annually, and not only will they slash your energy bills, but they’ll also enhance your boiler’s safety by adding a protective layer against burns, particularly for children.
Use thermostatic radiator valves
Employing thermostatic radiator valves could net you an impressive annual saving of £480. These handy devices let you adjust the temperature in each room individually, so you’re not squandering cash heating unused spaces. Instead, you can concentrate on warming the areas you frequent.
Joshua added: “If you don’t already have the valves, they can be bought for under £10 each. They provide a saving of up to 40% on your energy bill, which equates to £40 a month.”