Energy bills are set to rise by hundreds of pounds a year across the UK.

With households facing a substantial annual increase from April, we are all thinking about ways to cut costs.

Ofgem announced this week
The energy price cap will increase from 1 April for approximately 22 million customers.
Those on default tariffs paying by direct debit will see an increase of £693 from £1,277 to £1,971 per year (difference due to rounding).
Prepayment customers will see an increase of £708 from £1,309 to £2,017.

A number of energy suppliers have given their tips on saving energy – and money – which include some very simple tips.

One thing the energy suppliers all seem to agree on is that making small changes can make a big difference and by following their advice you could save hundreds of pounds a year.

These are some of the tips shared by energy suppliers – including changing how you use your kettle and washing machine.

Washing clothes

Wash clothes at 30C unless they are really muddy

Only use the washing machine when you have a full load

Use the shortest, coolest, lowest water machine cycle possible (which won’t always be the one named eco)

Try not to use a tumble dryer as often

Dry your clothes outside during nice weather.

Water use

Don’t leave the tap running while washing or brushing your teeth

Swap a bath for a shower

Try to use the shower for just four minutes at a time

Turn taps off properly, a dripping hot tap wastes water

View our range of products to help you save water use

Food and drink

Try to use your dishwasher less often

Cook meals in a slow cooker

Only fill the kettle with the water you need and no more

Fill your freezer, using cardboard or water bottles to fill any gaps

Use a microwave where possible, they are more energy-efficient and quicker than the oven

View our range of products to help you save money in your kitchen and utility 

Around the home

Turn off your lights when you leave a room

Make sure you have energy-efficient bulbs

View our range of Lighting to help save you money

Don’t leave appliances on standby

Don’t leave laptops and mobile phones on charge unnecessarily.

Turn the thermostat down by 1C

Turn off radiators in rooms not being used

Bleed your radiators

Move furniture away from radiators to allow heat to circulate

Close your curtains or blinds at dusk

Fit radiator reflector panels on exterior walls – or put aluminum foil on the wall behind the radiator

Use draught-excluding form tubing for windows

Use a draught-excluding brush for your letterbox on keyholes on exterior doors

View our range of Heating Savings you can make to your home to save you money

In Conclusion reading through the advice from our larger UK energy suppliers

Each and every one of us can help save ourselves money by making just a few small changes to our homes and encouraging all family members to do the same.

For schemes, grants and benefits to help with Home Energy please visit Ofgen for further information
https://www.ofgem.gov.uk/find-schemes-grants-and-benefits-help-home-energy