The energy crisis has been leaving many worried recently. Gas prices have risen steeply which has led to Rishi Sunak raising the energy cap cost by 54%. This leaves many facing a huge rise in the cost of living.
Merseynewslive has a few tips that may help with those soaring bills.
Get help with the bills
There are a few options available for those on low income or in need of benefits. People in Liverpool may be eligible for the Green Homes Grant which gives money to make improvements in their home.
This is to help with either insulation or improving the heating system so that it is more efficient.
People can contact their energy provider to see if they qualify for the Warm Homes Discount which is a one off discount of £140 from your energy bills. You can qualify for this if you are elderly or on low income. You can also apply for the Cold Weather Payment where you can get £25 for each 7-day period of very cold weather (below freezing) between 1 November and 31 March.
In Liverpool you can apply for the Household Support Fund if you are struggling with utilities. If you were born before 26th September 1955, you will be eligible for the winter fuel payment which can reduce your bill from anywhere from £100 to £300.
Insulate your home
Insulation is the easiest way to improve the warmth of your home and use less energy. The average semi-detached house loses over 30% of its heat through walls and adding insulation can lower energy bills by around 15%.
Many draught-proofing products are available in DIY stores with loft and cavity wall insulation making a big difference to how efficient your home can be. Simple things like closing the curtains at dusk and adding thermal underlay to carpets can also massively improve how much heating is needed.
You may be eligible for free or discounted insulation or heating measures. Contact your energy supplier and see if you qualify for the Energy Company Obligation (ECO)
Getting into good habits
These are not necessarily the biggest savings but they do make a difference. Making small changes such as turning off electrical equipment left on standby can save you around £30 a year. Washing your clothes at 30 degrees rather than 40 degrees can save you £38 a year. Doing just one less washing cycle a week can save you £5 a year.
Change your energy sources
This is the most expensive option but will have a big benefit long term. Changing to non-fossil fuel based heating such as heat pumps can save a household around £260 a year. It can also keep you protected from energy price spikes such as the one we have just experienced, but this is expensive. Heat pumps can cost anything from £6,000 to £18 000.
Other options, such as getting a more efficient boiler or smart boilers, can also make huge difference. A detached house upgrading from a G-rated boiler to an A rated boiler could save you around £300 a year.
