Nearly half of households are managing their energy consumption this winter due to soaring energy bills, a recent study has revealed. A survey conducted by MoneySuperMarket website indicated that 45% of respondents have delayed turning on their heating compared to last year. Additionally, 10% reported disagreements within their families regarding heating usage, with 6% expressing concerns that inadequate heating may have led to illness in their households.
These findings coincide with the impending increase in Ofgem’s price cap, set to rise to an average of £1,758 annually for millions of households. Despite a marginal 0.2% increment, bills are now 50% higher than when the cap was initially introduced in 2019.
More than half of households feel that the cost of living has worsened over the past year, with around 31% having to make financial cutbacks. Laura Hinton, an expert from MoneySuperMarket Energy, highlighted the financial strain many households are experiencing this holiday season due to escalating energy costs and other expenses.
To mitigate energy expenses, households are advised to consider switching to fixed energy deals and utilizing energy-saving measures. Installing a smart meter can help monitor real-time energy usage and identify power-hungry appliances. The Energy Saving Trust has also compiled 12 tips to help households reduce energy bills during the festive period.
Implementing strategies like adjusting boiler temperatures, using appliances efficiently, and embracing a cozy atmosphere can lead to significant savings. Other suggestions include batch cooking with electric ovens, keeping pan lids on while cooking, and switching to LED or solar Christmas lights. Additionally, freezing leftovers, using rechargeable batteries, and utilizing timers for Christmas lights can contribute to energy conservation and cost reduction.
By adopting these energy-saving practices, households can better manage their energy consumption and alleviate the financial burden of high energy bills during the winter season.