WITH the current temperatures heating up our homes, your boiler might not be your main focus at the moment.
But did you know it’s the perfect time of year to cut down your energy bills?
According to the pros at Path Energy, one of the UK’s leading energy companies, there are numerous little-known ways to reduce your energy spending, and it could be sitting in your utility room.
One such hack involves turning off a “secret button” on your boiler.
“As the warmer months roll in, the necessity for instant hot water decreases,” they said.
“Many homeowners don’t realise that their combi boiler’s pre-heat function, while beneficial in winter, can be an unnecessary energy drainer in spring and summer.
“Simply turning off this feature could lead to noticeable savings on your energy bills.
“It’s a small change with significant impact.”
You should also lower the boiler flow temperature while you’re at it too.
“Many boilers run hotter than necessary,” the experts explained.
“Setting the boiler flow temperature to a moderate 60°C can make your system more efficient without sacrificing your home’s cosiness.
“Many energy-saving guidelines recommend this easy adjustment -it’s a smart step towards both eco-friendly living and saving money.”
And to cut back your energy bills even more, you should reassess your radiator settings.
“Adjusting your radiator valves to match the seasons can really help control your energy use,” they said.
“Lowering the heat in rooms you use less can take some pressure off your boiler and cut down your bills.
“Getting this right means more comfort and less wasted energy.”
It’s not only alterations to the boiler and radiators that can help cut down your bills – why not think about your tap usage as well?
THERE'S a number of different ways to get help paying your energy bills if you're struggling to get by.
If you fall into debt, you can always approach your supplier to see if they can put you on a repayment plan before putting you on a prepayment meter.
This involves paying off what you owe in instalments over a set period.
If your supplier offers you a repayment plan you don’t think you can afford, speak to them again to see if you can negotiate a better deal.
Several energy firms have grant schemes available to customers struggling to cover their bills.
But eligibility criteria varies depending on the supplier and the amount you can get depends on your financial circumstances.
For example, British Gas or Scottish Gas customers struggling to pay their energy bills can get grants worth up to £1,500.
British Gas also offers help via its British Gas Energy Trust and Individuals Family Fund.
You don’t need to be a British Gas customer to apply for the second fund.
EDF, E.ON, Octopus Energy and Scottish Power all offer grants to struggling customers too.
Thousands of vulnerable households are missing out on extra help and protections by not signing up to the Priority Services Register (PSR).
The service helps support vulnerable households, such as those who are elderly or ill, and some of the perks include being given advance warning of blackouts, free gas safety checks and extra support if you’re struggling.
Get in touch with your energy firm to see if you can apply.
“A small change in how you use your taps can impact your energy usage more than you might expect,” they said.
“It’s common to automatically use hot water for everyday tasks without thinking about the unnecessary stress this puts on the boiler.
“Choosing cold water for routines like brushing teeth or washing hands not only conserves water but also prevents your boiler from activating unnecessarily.
“This mindful choice helps conserve energy.”
