This is a paid collaboration.
It’s no secret that energy bills rise during the colder months, due to the greater need for central heating, lighting, and hot water. With many confined at home this winter under lockdown restrictions, this utility cost could spike even further, especially if you’re using domestic electricity to work remotely.
Recent research revealed that homeworking could increase energy bills by £107 per household this winter. However, you can reduce the overall cost by eradicating wasteful habits and ensuring your appliances are operating smoothly.
Maximise energy efficiency
Hot water and central heating occupy most of winter energy bills, and the shorter days call for more use of artificial lighting. To gain the best results from your household appliances without breaking the bank, check they are working efficiently.
Update your boiler
You may need to replace or repair your boiler if it isn’t running correctly. Otherwise, it’ll have to work harder and use more energy to heat your home. If you’ve already had to pay for several repairs, it might be more cost-effective to invest in a new boiler. All modern boilers can reach over 90% energy efficiency, which can reduce your energy bills by £200.
If you’re unsure which type of boiler you need, use the ‘find a boiler’ tool on BOXT to receive advice on which product will best suit your property.
Don’t block radiators
Drying laundry on radiators causes the boiler to use more energy to release heat and to combat the extra moisture in the air created by the wet clothes.
Avoid placing large pieces of furniture or curtains in front of the radiators as well because they will absorb the heat needed to warm the room. Experts have predicted that moving your sofa just six inches away from the radiator could reduce your annual energy bill by £125.
Fit an efficient showerhead
Aerating showerheads minimise the flow of water but combine it with air to replicate the same volume as a standard showerhead.
Installing a water-efficient showerhead can save a four-person household up to £38 a year on gas for water heating, and another £53 on water bills if you have a water meter.
Energy-efficient light bulbs
Replacing standard bulbs with LED alternatives, which come in various shapes, fittings, and sizes can cut your yearly energy bills by an average of £40.
Abolish energy-wasting habits
One of the easiest ways to save energy is by evaluating whether you’re using it wisely. Wasting electricity will cost you more, without benefiting your usage experience.
Turn all devices off after using
Before leaving your workspace, switch all devices off at the plug, such as a laptop charger, to reduce your energy bills by £35. Don’t keep devices charging once the battery has attained 100% either to minimise energy waste.
Turn all lights off after leaving the room as well to save another £15.
Don’t fill the kettle unnecessarily
Instead of making rounds of hot drinks in the office, you may just be brewing enough for one cup while working from home. Only boil the amount of water you need in the kettle to avoid wasting energy and save around £6.
Manage your heating settings
Creating a timed central heating schedule will ensure you’re fully aware of your usage, so you don’t accidentally use more than you can afford. Installing smart heating devices could save you a further £75. These gadgets allow you to control your heating through a mobile app, receive energy usage reports, and activate zone-heating features.
You could also lower your thermostat by just one degree to trim another £60 off your energy costs, without making a noticeable difference to your warmth.
Making these changes to your household appliances and energy routine can lower your bills without having a significant impact on your home comfort. Although you can lessen your energy usage further, this is usually unattainable and won’t necessarily help you make long-term savings.
