It is that time of the year when getting out of bed in the morning seems the hardest task. Alternatively, a huge bill awaits your attention. Winter energy bills can massively affect your budget. They may consume a large amount of your profits as a business owner.
It also affects a working person’s savings. Moreover, energy prices are rising in the marketplace. The price cap for gas and electricity may increase by 10% in the fourth quarter of 2024. It may further rise by 3% in 2025. Thus, it is high time you curtail some costs.
The blog lists the actionable tips to reduce the bill by half in 2025. What could be better than saving enough for your life goals? Read ahead to know the details.
6 tested strategies to save on winter bills
Most individuals struggle but cannot save enough on electrical consumption. It is because they don’t know certain facts about saving on winter bills. For example- you can cut around €120/ year by switching off the appliances on standby. Thus, knowing such things would help you double up your savings. You can use it for other purposes instead. Here are other ways to cut winter bills:
1) Shift to LEDs from usual bulbs
Have you thought about saving 90% on electricity bills? Yes, you can do so. Identify the bulbs and lamps that consume the most power. For example, Halogen lamps are the costliest. They may dent your electricity bills. Replace these immediately if you have one.
These may be cheaper to buy but may affect the energy bill. Thus, LEDs prove budget-savvy here. It may cost a pound or two more than the usual lamps. However, they last for over 2-3 years and help save on power. You can witness a drastic change in the bill.
2) Use a washing machine and dishwasher carefully
Usually, the government have a bar over the water gallons to use for the dishwasher. It indeed consumes the most electricity and water. Thus, try to avoid buying one if you can do the dishes. It is an utter waste of money and water.
However, if you cannot skip one, check the best ways to save on electricity. For example- use the eco mode on the dishwasher. It helps you save water and electricity by lowering the water and rinse temperature. Moreover, use energy-certified dishwashers. The higher the rating, the more electricity you save. You can also inspect it to reduce usage.
The experts may help with professional tips. However, they may charge a fee for their services. If you lack the cash flexibility, don’t worry. Identify the best loan in Ireland with no credit check facility. You may use it to finance the expert’s fee. The general inspection helps you understand the loopholes and repair them accordingly. It may eventually help save money.
- Close vents of unused rooms
Many homeowners have a room or two that they hardly use. It could be a guest room, store room, or basement. If every room has a heating system, it simply gets wasted. Instead, close the doors and vents of the unused rooms. Check since when you have not used the room.
If it is over 6 months, then you must close it. Chances are you don’t need it unless you expect a guest or need another store room. Closing the vents and doors will help you save on money and bills. It is even helpful from the perspective of house safety.
4) Check and set up drafts
Is your home feeling a little uneasy? It could be due to drafts. It is nothing but the heat that escapes from your rooms. It reveals the moisture in the home. Caulk up the home and weather-stripping to seal the air leaks. Winter air can sneak into your home through energy outlets. It could also enter through AC units and gaps in your insulation cover.
It is thus ideal to consult the expert for the draft check. It will help you know the existing issues and operate accordingly. You can even apply new caulk to the broken seals and replace the damaged ones. However, you may need to insulate to fill the larger gaps. However, an expert may only help with this. Analyse the one near your home and compare the rates. Find the one that meets your needs and budget.
5) Replace your boiler
If you have been using the same boiler for over 5 years, replace it. It is beneficial from the perspective of energy saving and budget. Try to switch to an A-rated condensing boiler with a program. You can also check other aspects like- a room thermostat and a radiator. However, switching from a thermostat radiator is challenging. You can check a G-rated boiler for that. It could help you save nearly €260/year. It is according to the Energy Saving Trust.
The price of the boiler could rise by €1500-€5000 depending on the type. Out of these, system-based boilers are the costliest. However, the combi boiler costs the least. If yours is a system-based one and you want to change, compare the rates. Check ongoing discounts on the product.
If you still need more lump sum to bridge the costs, explore options. You may contact the reputed private lenders in Ireland’s marketplace. These experts would help you finance the deal with an instant payout. Choose the one that ensures transparent lending terms. You don’t need to wait until the other day. Moreover, the loan does not demand huge installation. Instead, you can repay according to your affordability.
6) Reduce your thermostat a little
You can save money on thermostats by lowering each degree. According to a fact, turning down your thermostat to 1 degree helps you save at least 10% of the bill.
For example- if you pay €1200/month, it only costs €1080/month. Thus, you can reduce your bill further by cutting every unit. Check whether you have thermostats in places you hardly use. Uninstall them. You can surprisingly save well by doing so.
According to NHS, “the temperature as low as 18 degrees Celsius is healthy.” However, not everyone is comfortable with that. Ensure a cosy temperature that complies with body needs. Moreover, the doors should be kept closed to capture the warmth for a long time.
Bottom line
Thus, these are some top tips to cut your energy bills. It will help you save money and achieve other goals timely. Identify the basics of saving money on electricity. The more you know, the more money you can save. Factors like insulation, and reducing thermostat temperature help. However, examine and replace old appliances that meet needs and budget.
