Nearly 50% of households are managing their energy consumption this winter due to soaring energy bills, a recent study has revealed. MoneySuperMarket conducted a survey showing that 45% of respondents have delayed turning on their heating this season compared to last year.
Furthermore, 10% of individuals admitted to disputes within their families over heating usage, while 6% expressed concerns that someone in their household had fallen ill due to inadequate heating. These findings surface just before Ofgem’s price cap raises to an average of £1,758 per year for numerous households, marking a 50% increase since its inception in 2019.
The survey also indicates that over half of households believe the cost of living has worsened in the past year, with 31% having to make financial cutbacks. Laura Hinton from MoneySuperMarket Energy emphasized the financial strain on households, mentioning that people are employing energy-saving measures like adjusting heating usage and opting for energy-efficient appliances to cope.
Hinton suggested exploring fixed energy deals for potential savings and protection against future price hikes. Additionally, installing a smart meter can provide real-time energy usage insights, helping households monitor and manage their consumption effectively.
To assist households in reducing energy costs this holiday season, the Energy Saving Trust offers practical tips. These include adjusting boiler temperatures, using draught excluders, optimizing dishwasher and washing machine usage, and embracing energy-saving practices in cooking and lighting arrangements.
By implementing these energy-saving strategies, households can potentially save money while ensuring efficient energy utilization during the festive period.