***Collaborative post***
It is hard to escape the fact that the cost of living is rising and one of the biggest culprits behind the escalating prices is the cost of energy. Gas and electric bills are at an all-time high with no reprieve in sight. As such it is down to users to help limit the soaring prices and take action to help reduce monthly bills. Here are some steps to help you take proactive steps to keep the cost of your monthly bills down.
Upgrade your appliances
If your appliances are on the older side or due an upgrade in the foreseeable future it might be time to bite the bullet and invest in new appliances. Older appliances will not be as energy-efficient as newer models on the market, which could result in considerable monthly savings. Although there is an initial outlay, if the time is right then don’t put off your upgrade any longer. You will soon recoup that initial expense.
Get your boiler serviced
Arranging a boiler service with a local engineer is a great cost-effective way to not only get a longer life span from your boiler but to help reduce energy bills also. By routinely checking the elements that make up your boiler and ensuring they are cleaned and maintained you will reduce the risk of your boiler failing or providing less heat. A regular service can make all the difference to the lifespan and efficiency of your boiler.
Turn things off, properly
When it comes to turning off your appliances, electricals and gadgets this means turning them off standby also. If an appliance is connected to a power source be sure to turn off that source completely. Further to this, instead of letting laptops and chargers go into sleep or standby mode overnight consider shutting them down. Leaving electronics plugged into power sources costs you money, money that you do not need to be spending. So resist the urge to use the standby function and turn appliances off at the source.
This also counts for the lights in your home. If you are not in a room then the light does not need to be on. Make sure every household member makes a concerted effort to switch off all the lights when they leave a room.
A top tip; replace your bulbs with LED bulbs to help you save even more.
Dry your washing outside
It is easy to take your washing straight from the machine and put it into the dryer. However each time you fire up your tumble dryer you are paying for the pleasure. As long as the weather permits, hang your washing out to dry on the line.
A top tip; washing at 30 uses less energy than a 40degree washing cycle.
A shower is cheaper than a bath
As lovely as a long hot soak in a deeply filled bath is, the reality is a shower is much cheaper and considerably more environmentally friendly. So, swap your bath for a shower as often as you can.
