Nearly half of households are adjusting their energy usage due to high winter bills, a recent study has revealed. Research conducted by MoneySuperMarket showed that 45% of respondents have postponed turning on their heating this winter compared to the previous year. Additionally, 10% reported disputes within their families over heating usage, and 6% expressed concerns about family members falling ill due to insufficient heating at home.
These findings coincide with an impending increase in Ofgem’s price cap to an average of £1,758 annually for numerous households, representing a 50% surge since the cap’s inception in 2019. Over half of households feel that the cost of living has worsened in the past year, with 31% having to make financial cutbacks.
Laura Hinton, a representative from MoneySuperMarket Energy, emphasized the financial strain many households face during the holiday season due to rising energy and living costs. Hinton suggested strategies such as using energy-efficient appliances, managing heating cautiously, and reducing festive lighting to alleviate the financial burden. She also recommended exploring fixed energy deals to potentially save up to £395 and shield against future price hikes.
Moreover, installing a smart meter can help monitor real-time energy consumption, with in-home displays enabling users to track energy usage and costs accurately. The Energy Saving Trust has compiled 12 additional tips to assist households in lowering energy expenses during Christmas.
Implementing measures like adjusting boiler temperatures, using draught excluders, optimizing dishwasher and washing machine usage, and embracing energy-saving habits can lead to substantial savings. Furthermore, employing efficient cooking practices, utilizing LED or solar Christmas lights, and adopting energy-conscious behaviors can significantly reduce electricity expenses. Additional tips include properly storing leftovers, opting for rechargeable batteries, and employing timers for electrical devices to curtail energy consumption.
In conclusion, proactive energy management and adopting energy-efficient practices can help households mitigate the impact of escalating energy costs during the winter season, ensuring both financial savings and sustainability.