Cutting Energy Bills This Summer: Expert Tips to Save You Money
As the summer heat sets in, many of us are bracing ourselves for the inevitable spike in energy bills. However, with a few simple tricks and investments, you can keep your costs low and your wallet happy. Energy Saving Trust reports that households can save up to £300 a year by making a few changes to their daily habits.
Summer energy savings
One of the most effective ways to cut energy bills is to unplug devices when not in use. This may seem like a no-brainer, but it’s surprising how many of us leave our TVs, computers, and other appliances on standby, wasting precious energy. According to the Energy Saving Trust, standby power can account for up to 10% of your energy bill.
Another clever investment is a smart power strip, which can cut power to devices when they’re not in use. For around £29.99, this simple device can save you money throughout the year.
A smart power strip can save you money throughout the year
Defying the instinct to unplug everything, using a dishwasher can actually be more energy-efficient than hand washing in the sink. According to the Energy Saving Trust, dishwashers use less water than hand washing, making them a more environmentally friendly option. Just be sure to completely fill your dishwasher before turning it on to reduce cost-per-wash.
Dishwashers use less water than hand washing
Defrosting your freezer during the warmer months can also make a big difference. Ice buildup means your freezer has to work harder to regulate the temperature inside, especially if it gathers around the fan. A frost-free freezer will save you money on energy bills and give you more room for ice creams and other summer treats.
Defrosting your freezer can save you money on energy bills
Reducing the heat on your washing machine can also make a significant impact. While doing laundry at higher temperatures is more effective for killing germs and mould, a consistent 30 degrees for a full load can still achieve this while being energy efficient. And, by drying your clothes outside, you can save even more energy.
Reducing the heat on your washing machine can save energy
Finally, make the most of outdoor living in summer and commit to restricting as much energy use as possible to off-peak hours. Off-peak hours vary depending on your supplier, but they’re usually between 10pm and 8am because less energy is taken from the grid during this time, so energy providers can afford to offer cheaper rates.
Make the most of outdoor living in summer
By following these simple tips, you can keep your energy bills low and enjoy the summer heat without breaking the bank.
“Take some time over summer to check what you are entitled to. Even a small award can open the door to lots of different help, such as the WaterSure scheme, which helps low-income households with high essential water use with the cost of their water bills.” - Sian Westley, Money Wellness expert
