The coming year looks like it could be an expensive one for UK householders. In particular, energy bills are forecast to rise by an average of 20% (or £500) per year. This means that it’s even more important for householders to make their homes as energy-efficient as possible.
Why energy bills are set to rise
At present, the Energy Price Guarantee (EPG) caps household energy bills at £2100. In April 2023, this is due to come to an end. It will be replaced by the Energy Price Cap (EPC). This was recently lowered from £4,379 to £3,280 per year. It is, however, still a lot higher than the EPG. Furthermore, the £400 energy support payment scheme will also end in April.
It is worth noting that the government could step up to offer further support (possibly targeted support). Cynics might note that the next election is now less than two years away. As it stands, however, UK householders should be braced for higher energy bills.
The good news is that the increases should really only start to make themselves felt when the cold weather returns. This gives householders a window of opportunity to make sure that their homes are as energy-efficient as possible.
Insulation your home to the max
You’ve probably read a lot about the importance of insulation. You may not, however, have read a lot about the actual principles of insulation and how it works.
Insulation is the process of reducing heat transfer between different materials, such as between the interior and exterior of a building. Insulation works by trapping air pockets between the building\’s interior and exterior, which act as a barrier against heat transfer.
Proper insulation can significantly reduce your energy bills. As a bonus, it can also significantly improve your soundproofing.
Now you know the principles behind insulation, go through your home and actively look for ways to apply them. No matter how small the change seems, make it. Small changes really do add up to big savings.
Take care of your radiators
If you still have gas radiators, it’s important to bleed them regularly. This gets rid of trapped air and hence makes the radiator operate more efficiently. Also, keep a close eye open for leaks. If you do see any, contact a qualified technician (or your landlord) immediately.
For electric radiators make the most of the fact that they offer much more flexibility in positioning. At a minimum, ensure that the radiator is positioned so that as much as possible of the heat stays in the room. This generally means keeping them away from doors. Ideally, put the radiator where the heat is most needed.
For all radiators, make sure the space around them is clear. This improves both their efficiency and safety. If they are wall-mounted, put foil behind them (and, if possible) above them.
Commit to cleaning your radiators regularly with a soft cloth or brush. Dust and debris on a radiator’s surface will make it less efficient. If you want to paint your radiator, use proper radiator paint. Regular paint may make your radiator less efficient.
If you have the budget, consider investing in smart heating. Even if you can’t afford a whole new heating system, you may be able to retrofit smart thermostatic valves to your current heating system.
Heat your body rather than your home
This tends to work best in the daytime but it can be very effective and it doesn’t have to mean bundling up in multiple layers. With the warmer weather coming in, there’s a good chance that thermals will be discounted. Invest in some. Use them plus blankets (regular and electric), hot water bottles and hot drinks instead of running your heating.
The coming year looks like it could be an expensive one for UK householders. In particular, energy bills are forecast to rise by an average of 20% (or £500) per year. This means that it’s even more important for householders to make their homes as energy-efficient as possible.
Why energy bills are set to rise
At present, the Energy Price Guarantee (EPG) caps household energy bills at £2100. In April 2023, this is due to come to an end. It will be replaced by the Energy Price Cap (EPC). This was recently lowered from £4,379 to £3,280 per year. It is, however, still a lot higher than the EPG. Furthermore, the £400 energy support payment scheme will also end in April.
It is worth noting that the government could step up to offer further support (possibly targeted support). Cynics might note that the next election is now less than two years away. As it stands, however, UK householders should be braced for higher energy bills.
The good news is that the increases should really only start to make themselves felt when the cold weather returns. This gives householders a window of opportunity to make sure that their homes are as energy-efficient as possible.
Insulation your home to the max
You’ve probably read a lot about the importance of insulation. You may not, however, have read a lot about the actual principles of insulation and how it works.
Insulation is the process of reducing heat transfer between different materials, such as between the interior and exterior of a building. Insulation works by trapping air pockets between the building\’s interior and exterior, which act as a barrier against heat transfer.
Proper insulation can significantly reduce your energy bills. As a bonus, it can also significantly improve your soundproofing.
Now you know the principles behind insulation, go through your home and actively look for ways to apply them. No matter how small the change seems, make it. Small changes really do add up to big savings.
Take care of your radiators
If you still have gas radiators, it’s important to bleed them regularly. This gets rid of trapped air and hence makes the radiator operate more efficiently. Also, keep a close eye open for leaks. If you do see any, contact a qualified technician (or your landlord) immediately.
For electric radiators make the most of the fact that they offer much more flexibility in positioning. At a minimum, ensure that the radiator is positioned so that as much as possible of the heat stays in the room. This generally means keeping them away from doors. Ideally, put the radiator where the heat is most needed.
For all radiators, make sure the space around them is clear. This improves both their efficiency and safety. If they are wall-mounted, put foil behind them (and, if possible) above them.
Commit to cleaning your radiators regularly with a soft cloth or brush. Dust and debris on a radiator’s surface will make it less efficient. If you want to paint your radiator, use proper radiator paint. Regular paint may make your radiator less efficient.
If you have the budget, consider investing in smart heating. Even if you can’t afford a whole new heating system, you may be able to retrofit smart thermostatic valves to your current heating system.
Heat your body rather than your home
This tends to work best in the daytime but it can be very effective and it doesn’t have to mean bundling up in multiple layers. With the warmer weather coming in, there’s a good chance that thermals will be discounted. Invest in some. Use them plus blankets (regular and electric), hot water bottles and hot drinks instead of running your heating.
