With rising living costs and the weather only getting colder, it can sometimes feel overwhelming when it comes to budgeting.
Our partners at PayPlan – one of the UK’s largest free debt advice providers – have put together some energy-saving tips to help you stay warm and cosy, without breaking the bank.
Seal in the warmth
Make sure you keep the warmth in and the cold out by sealing any gaps or cracks in your home where cold air can come in, like your doors and windows. Draught excluders or weather-stripping tape are effective and inexpensive ways to keep the heat in. Keyholes can also allow warm air to escape, so consider getting a cover for them as well.
Get the best out of your appliances
General tips for your appliances
If your appliances have an eco-setting, it’s worth using it. It will help save the environment and your pocket.
For items like chargers, radiators or speakers that don’t need to be on all the time, unplug them when not in use. Speakers can cost around £6 a year when on standby for 20 hours a day, and a radiator left on in a room that’s not in use is just keeping an empty room warm.
Make sure your appliances are cleaned regularly too, as this will help to keep them running efficiently. For example, did you know that a kettle with limescale build-up requires more energy to heat water? Likewise, keeping your freezer organised and the back of your fridge clean can help both run more efficiently.
Tips for your washing machine
- Instead of washing all your clothes at high temperatures, consider using a lower setting, especially for items that aren’t heavily stained.
- Be efficient with your laundry load. If you don’t have enough clothes to wash, wait until you do.
- Use machine commercial stain removers and cleaners for tough stains and to clean your washing machine.
- For everyday items like trousers and jumpers, consider airing them out after a single wear instead of washing them right away.
Tips for your tumble dryer
- If the weather’s good, dry your clothes outside instead.
- If you use the dryer, clean the lint filter regularly and sort your clothes out by fabric type to reduce drying time.
Do your research
Why not look to see if you can get a better deal with a different energy provider or tariff? Which? has created a free energy comparison tool to find a better rate for you and your home.
- If you receive paper bills, check to see if you’re being charged for them and ask to receive them via email or on your provider’s app instead.
- Paying by direct debit is usually cheaper and will help you manage your costs more closely within your budget.
- If you don’t have a smart reader, remember to send your supplier meter readings as often as possible. This ensures you’re paying for what you use instead of estimated amounts.
- You can also see if your provider offers any scheme for non-peak usage (using electricity at quieter times, such as between 11am and 4pm). British Gas, for example, has a scheme called PeakSave, which rewards customers who use their electricity when there is less demand.
A few final tips
If money’s tight, there are some particularly budget-friendly ways you can save on energy bills:
- Turn down the thermostat and add a layer or two to keep warm.
- Try wearing slippers or warm socks and consider using a hot water bottle to stay warm with minimal energy use.
- You can also charge devices while you’re out, such as at a local library or community centre, to save energy at home.
Overview
For more practical energy-saving ideas, visit BudgetSmart, where you’ll find additional tips on reducing household costs and boosting your income.
What you can do next
If you are struggling to repay debts and feel like you need some support, you can also call PayPlan on 0800 072 1206, they’re open from 8am – 8pm Monday to Friday and 9am – 3pm on Saturdays.
Alternatively, you can visit www.payplan.com/the-fire-fighters-charity to speak to them via live chat or for more information.
Support available through Fire Fighters Charity
We have online courses available for you to try, ranging from shorter Bitesize courses, to longer, in-depth six-week ones. You can explore those here.
Our Welfare Team are also available to help offer advice, guidance, signposting and support. If you feel you’d benefit from our help, you can call our Support Line on 0800 3898820.
