Nearly half of households are limiting their energy consumption this winter due to soaring energy bills, a recent study has revealed. A survey conducted by MoneySuperMarket website showed that 45% of respondents have delayed turning on their heating this season compared to the previous year. Additionally, 10% reported disputes within their families over heating usage, while 6% expressed concerns that someone in their household had fallen ill due to inadequate heating.
These findings arrive just ahead of Ofgem’s forthcoming price cap adjustment to an average of £1,758 annually for many homes, representing a 50% increase since the cap’s introduction in 2019. More than half of households believe that their cost of living has worsened over the past year, with 31% admitting to implementing cutbacks and sacrifices.
Laura Hinton, representing MoneySuperMarket Energy, emphasized the financial strain on households during the holiday season due to escalating energy costs and other expenses. She highlighted the importance of managing energy usage by employing energy-efficient practices, such as being mindful of heating, using efficient appliances for cooking, and reducing the use of decorative lighting.
To alleviate energy expenses, Hinton recommended exploring fixed-rate energy deals and switching tariffs online to potentially save up to £395 and shield against future price hikes. Additionally, installing a smart meter can help monitor real-time energy usage, while adopting energy-saving practices like lowering boiler temperatures and utilizing draught excluders can further reduce costs.
Furthermore, the Energy Saving Trust has compiled a list of 12 tips to assist households in curbing energy expenses this festive period. Suggestions include optimizing dishwasher and washing machine usage, adjusting thermostat settings, embracing cozy attire, and utilizing electric ovens efficiently for batch cooking. Other strategies involve keeping pan lids on while cooking, utilizing LED or solar Christmas lights, and implementing timers for electrical devices to save on energy consumption.
By implementing these energy-saving measures, households can effectively manage their energy bills and reduce their overall environmental impact while ensuring comfort and financial stability during the winter season.
