Energy companies share hacks to reduce bills amid rising living costs
ENERGY COMPANIES have shared some simple tips to help households save money - and power - amid concern about the rise of living costs.
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Suppliers say changing the way people use their kettles, washing machines and showers will help them save money. The advice is timely as households face an annual increase of £693 from April, it was revealed last week.
So, Express.co.uk has collated the best suggestions energy firms have advised to help.
Have you been affected by the rise in living costs? Tell us your stories by emailing bradley.jolly@reachplc.com
Washing clothes
- Wash clothes at 30C unless they are really muddy
- Only use it when you have a full load
- Don't use a tumble dryer
- Use the shortest, coolest, lowest water machine cycle possible (which won't always be the one labelled eco)
Water use
- Don't leave the tap running while washing up or brushing your teeth
- Swap one bath a week for a shower
- Only go in the shower for four minutes at a time
Food and drink
Use your dishwasher less often
Prepare 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 gaps
Use a microwave where possible, they are more energy efficient and quicker than the oven
Around the home
Turn off your lights when you leave a room - and make sure you have energy-efficient bulbs
Turn the thermostat by 1C
Turn off radiators in empty room
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 and a draught brush for your letterbox on keyholes on exterior doors