UK Households Urged to Perform Nightly Task Before July 1 to Cut Energy Bills
As spring continues and summer approaches, energy experts have revealed long-term habits that can significantly reduce household energy bills, with a particular focus on a simple nightly task that could save up to £100 annually.
Shielding from Future Price Rises
Gareth Kloet, an energy spokesperson at GoCompare, warns that energy costs remain volatile, with the current price cap set to conclude on June 30. "The outlook is that the cost of energy will rise after this current price cap ends," Kloet explains. "It's not just about immediate savings—it's about protecting yourself from future increases. Becoming more energy-conscious is good practice year-round."
The Key Nightly Habit
One of the most effective tips is to review and switch off devices left on standby every night before bed. "Estimates vary, but it's not unusual to save £60 to £100 a year by doing this," says Kloet. This simple action can accumulate substantial savings, especially with electricity costs fluctuating.
Additional Energy-Saving Strategies
Kloet offers several other practical suggestions to further reduce energy consumption:
- Avoid tumble dryers: Use a washing line instead when possible.
- Lower wash temperatures: Switching from 60°C to 40°C can save £15-£40 annually.
- Consolidate laundry: Try to do as much washing as possible in one go to maximize efficiency.
- Consider fixed-rate deals: While not necessarily saving against current prices, these can shield households from potential future rises, similar to fixed-rate mortgages.
- Upgrade lighting: Replace old-fashioned bulbs with LEDs, which use about a tenth of the electricity.
With the July 1 price rise looming, adopting these habits now can help households manage their energy usage more effectively and mitigate the impact of expected cost increases.
