I’m a mum-of-2 & saved £24k in a YEAR – my insider tips on how to cut down on bills this summer and still have fun

AS THE cost of living keeps rising, many of us feel the pinch regarding household bills.

The soaring energy prices just keep going up and this has led to a surge in many of us looking for ways to lower our bills and cut costs this summer.

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Michael Donnelly Photographer

The easiest place to start is to aim for the low-hanging fruit like electricity, gas and water.

We have to pay for these things, so why not get them at the best price possible? Here are some tips on how to do just that…

5 ways to reduce your electricity bill at home

1. Embrace energy-saving habits: Simple things like turning off lights, TVs, and other electronics when not in use. Use power-saving settings on devices and laptops to minimise energy use. Take it one step further and unplug devices when not in use and avoid energy-draining standby mode altogether.
2. Upgrade to energy-efficient appliances: Look for machines with a high energy rating like A or B-efficient when upgrading. Also, choose LED or CFL bulbs over traditional ones when it’s time to replace them.
3. Improve insulation and weatherproofing: Some insulting can be done quickly and cheaply, such as sealing air leaks around windows, doors, and vents. If there is more in the budget, think about insulation in your home. Areas like the attic and walls are the best places to get a quick win.
4. Consider getting a professional energy audit of your home: Experts can find your energy usage, identify areas for improvement, and provide recommendations tailored to your specific situation. They can help you maximise energy efficiency and reduce those bills.
5. Invest in renewable energy systems: Explore the possibility of installing solar panels or other renewable energy systems.

Electricity isn’t the only bill that seems to be rising ever higher as time goes on. Keep gas bills in check too…

4 ways to reduce your gas bill at home:

1. Weatherstripping: Apply weatherstripping to doors and windows to create a tighter seal. This prevents cold air from entering and warm air from escaping, keeping your home cosier.
2. Adjust your thermostat: Lowering your thermostat by just a few degrees can make a big difference. Consider dropping it by a couple of degrees, especially when you’re not at home or during nighttime.
3. Install a smart thermostat: Preferably one that automatically adjusts temperature settings based on your preferences and family schedule.
4. Use natural sunlight: During the daytime, open your curtains or blinds to allow natural sunlight to warm up your living spaces.

Water bills can also be a considerable expense, especially in the summer.

It can be easy to waste water if we are not careful, and it can get expensive.

Being more mindful and lowering water consumption will save money and ease stress.

3 ways to reduce your water bill at home:

1. Fix leaks straight away: Check taps, toilets, and pipes for leaks or drips, and repair any leaks immediately.
2. Install water-efficient fixtures: Replace old, inefficient toilets with low-flow models. Installing aerators on faucets and showerheads to reduce water flow so you get more bang for your money. If you can upgrade to water-efficient appliances.
3. Get the most out of your water usage: Take shorter showers and turn off the water while lathering or shampooing. Collect and reuse rainwater for tasks like watering plants or cleaning.

BONUS TIP

1. Encourage family members to be mindful of their energy usage habits, make a game of it and see who can reduce their use the most.

Remember to compare energy providers and their pricing plans as they can change and you might be able to get better value.

Every small change counts in reducing household bills. By applying these tips and being mindful of the daily use of your energy and water, you can notably reduce your monthly bills.

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