The rising cost of living continues to impact households across the UK. With Ofgem’s recent price cap maintaining elevated energy prices, many homeowners are seeking effective ways to cut their utility bills. A key strategy involves implementing energy-saving tips and utilizing readily available products within the home.
Addressing Heat Loss to Lower Bills
Among the most effective tips suggested by energy suppliers, Octopus Energy stands out. As the largest energy supplier in the UK in 2024, Octopus Energy surpassed British Gas in customer accounts. The company is noted for its commitment to customer service and innovative energy solutions.
Sealing Draughts for Cost Savings
One impactful recommendation from Octopus Energy focuses on sealing draughts in the home. Gaps around door frames and windows often allow warm air to escape, leading to increased heating costs. By addressing these issues, homeowners can potentially save up to £80 annually on their energy bills.
- Check for draughts around:
- Doors and Windows
- Floorboards and Skirting Boards
- Chimneys and Fireplaces
- Loft Hatches
- Pipes and Electrical Fittings
- Vents
Octopus Energy suggests an easy strategy for identifying draughts: using the back of your hand or employing a thermal camera. For those inclined to DIY solutions, creating draught excluders from old fabric scraps can be an inexpensive method. Stuffing a pair of tights with items like socks or rice can serve as an effective draught stopper.
Affordable Draught-Proofing Solutions
If homeowners prefer a more straightforward approach, self-adhesive draught-proofing foam strips are a popular and low-cost option. Many retail outlets, including B&Q, Screwfix, and Amazon, offer these products. For instance, consumers can find Single Sided Adhesive Closed Cell Draught Excluder Foam Tape available for as little as 99p.
The Energy Savings Trust also highlights the importance of draught-proofing. Homes that are not newly built typically experience heat loss due to gaps. It cites that professional draught-proofing may cost around £250 but can yield savings of approximately £85 per year.
In summary, homeowners can substantially reduce energy costs by effectively sealing draughts. Employing simple, DIY solutions can not only promote comfort within the home but also lead to significant financial savings.
