Citizens Advice have joined forces with the Energy Saving Trust to share some tips to help you stay warm and save money this Winter.  

As the temperatures plummet throughout January and energy costs still soaring, tips that can keep you warm and save some money is always welcome.

Here are some of things you can do to keep the prices down:

  • Turn down your thermostat by 1°C and save around £105 a year on energy bills. 
  • But to keep comfortable and stay safe we recommend staying above 18°C 
  • Switch your heating off when leaving the house for a few hours. 
  • It’s cheaper to reheat your home than keep your heating on low when you’re out, unless you own a heat pump. 
  • Fit draught-proofing strips to your windows and doors and save around £45 a year. 
  • This can be a quick DIY job. Keeping extra heat in your home will leave you feeling warmer and more comfortable. 
  • Get a hot water cylinder jacket and save roughly £50 a year on energy bills. 
  • Jackets are easy to fit, typically cost under £30, and you’ll also spend less on a hot shower or bath in the future. 
  • Keep furniture away from radiators and heaters to feel warmer at home. 
  • Don’t overwork your system by blocking your source of heat and remember to remove radiator covers to get more value for money. 

Turn off the lights.  

Remember to turn lights off when you’re not using them – even if it’s just off for a few seconds. This could save around £25 a year. When it’s time to replace the bulb, consider going for an LED bulb - these reach full brightness right away and cost a lot less to run than older bulbs. 

Make simple savings in the kitchen. 

You could save around £14 a year by using your washing machine on a 30-degree cycle instead of higher temperatures. Ditch the dryer to save even more money - dry your clothes on racks inside or outside in warmer weather to save up to £60 a year. 

Heat can escape through your chimney.  Installing a chimney draught excluder could save you around £65 a year. 

You might be able to get help with your energy bills. The help available will depend on how you pay for your energy, the type of energy you use and if you claim benefits. 

Contact Citizens Advice North Herts at northhertscab.org.uk or Citizens Advice Stevenage at stevenagecab.org.uk or call the Citizens Advice Hertfordshire Adviceline number 0800 144 88 48 if you’d like help or advice.