With global warming leading to hotter summers and freezing winters, more of us than ever before rely on our central heating to keep us cosy during the Winter months. Many of us leave our heating constantly on during the night (and sometimes during the day when it snows), which leads to a huge energy bill landing on the mat come the spring.
The Rising Cost of Fuel
The elderly and those most vulnerable have been hit hard by the rising cost of fuel recently, with many old people unable to afford to turn their central heating on this winter. With energy bills doubling in the UK over the last eight years, many of us are now living in fuel poverty, worried about heating our homes this winter as the energy companies face yet another price rise. Fuel poverty is defined as “a home which cannot afford to keep adequately warm at reasonable cost,” and the UK government defines it as “…anyone who spends more than 10% of their income on fuel”. This year in the UK, one in four families have been forced to make a choice between eating and heating.
What can you do to Save Money this Winter?
Installing gas central heating in your home could save you a substantial amount of money compared to using electric or storage heaters. With some storage heaters using around £100 of electricity a week to keep the average home at a comfortable temperature, it’s easy to see why switching to gas could save you money. Seek advice from a supplier of Central heating Widnes who can provide you with a comprehensive quote on replacing your current system.
This isn’t an option for everyone though, and simply getting to know your boiler could lead to significant savings on your fuel bill. By controlling your central heating using the program switch on your boiler and thermostat, if you have one, you could save money. Set your timer to come on before you get out of bed in the morning, ensuring a nice, cosy bedroom awaits you, and to go off as you leave for work. Setting it to come on again just before you are due to get home, and off around your usual bedtime will ensure that you are only using as much heat as you need, as you will be warm under your duvet once you go to sleep.
Turn your Thermostat down
Turning your thermostat down by just 1 or 2 degrees could result in a saving of hundreds of pounds a year. Layer up when at home and wear cosy knitwear to keep warm, or make yourself a nice hot drink. Cooking warming, winter foods such as stews and casseroles can help fight the chill on wintry evenings.
There are a number of ways to save money on your central heating bills this winter, and with a bit of common sense your bank balance will be healthier come the spring. If you have queries about how to save money on your heating bills or are not sure how to use your boiler program switch properly, contact a reliable supplier of central heating in Widnes who will be able to help you.
