💡 Energy Bills Explained: How to Save Money at Home This Winter -10 tips
💡 Energy Bills Explained: How to Save Money at Home This Winter -10 tips
As temperatures drop and the nights draw in, most of us start thinking about how to keep our homes warm without our energy bills skyrocketing.
With prices still fluctuating and usage naturally rising in the colder months, being smart about your energy habits can make a real difference — both to your bank balance and your home’s comfort.
At Redrose Estate Agents, we’re passionate about helping you make your home not just beautiful, but efficient too. Whether you’re a homeowner, tenant, or landlord, here’s our simple, UK-specific guide to understanding energy bills and saving money this winter.
1. Understand What You’re Paying For
Energy bills can feel confusing, but breaking them down helps you take control.
A typical UK energy bill includes charges for:
- Gas and electricity usage (measured in kWh)
- A standing charge — a fixed daily cost to keep your home connected
- VAT (usually 5%)
Your total cost depends on how much energy you use and your tariff type (fixed, variable, or prepayment). Check your latest bill or online account to see how much you’re spending per kWh — even small changes in usage can make a big difference.
2. Make the Most of a Smart Meter
If you haven’t yet, consider installing a smart meter. These handy devices track your energy use in real time, showing exactly how much you’re spending throughout the day.
With accurate readings sent directly to your supplier, you’ll avoid estimated bills — and the visual feedback helps most households cut energy use by around 10%.
Smart meters are free to install through your energy supplier and can be fitted in most UK homes.
3. Insulate to Stay Warm
Good insulation is one of the most effective ways to cut energy costs.
- Loft insulation prevents up to 25% of heat from escaping through your roof.
- Cavity wall insulation can save hundreds each year on heating bills.
- Draught proofing doors, windows, and letterboxes keeps warm air in and cold air out.
Simple touches like thermal curtains, rugs on bare floors, and even a draught excluder at the front door can make your home feel warmer instantly.
4. Check Your Boiler and Heating System
Your boiler works hardest in winter — and an inefficient one can waste both energy and money.
- Have your boiler serviced annually to keep it running efficiently and safely.
- Bleed radiators before winter to release trapped air and improve heat circulation.
- If your boiler is over 10 years old, upgrading to a modern condensing boiler could save £300+ per year in energy costs.
5. Be Smart with Everyday Habits
Small daily changes really do add up.
- Turn the thermostat down by just 1°C — you could save around £100 per year.
- Use the eco setting on washing machines and dishwashers.
- Air dry clothes instead of using the tumble dryer.
- Switch off lights and devices at the plug when not in use.
- Close curtains as soon as it gets dark to trap heat inside.
It’s the little habits that make a big impact over time.
6. Manage Your Hot Water Wisely
Heating water is one of the biggest energy drains in any home.
- Set your water cylinder thermostat to 60°C — hot enough to prevent bacteria but not wasteful.
- Fit a shower timer to keep showers short and efficient.
- If possible, switch to a combi boiler, which only heats water when needed instead of storing it.
7. Explore Energy-Efficient Upgrades
For homeowners looking to invest long-term, consider:
- Double or triple glazing to reduce heat loss.
- Smart thermostats that learn your schedule and avoid wasted heat.
- LED lighting, which uses up to 80% less electricity.
- Solar panels, if your roof gets good sunlight exposure — the initial cost pays back over time.
These upgrades not only reduce bills but also boost your EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) rating, adding value to your property.
8. Check What Support Is Available
The UK government and energy providers offer several schemes to help households stay warm:
- Winter Fuel Payment – for those born before a certain date.
- Warm Home Discount – a one-off payment for eligible low-income households.
- Energy Company Obligation (ECO) – support for home insulation and energy-efficient upgrades.
Check the GOV.UK website or your local council to see what you might qualify for.
9. Don’t Heat Empty Rooms
If you’re not using a room regularly, turn down or off its radiator and close the door. Focus heating in the spaces you spend the most time in.
Zoning your heating this way is simple, effective, and helps keep bills under control.
10. Think Ahead for Next Winter
Energy efficiency is a year-round mindset. Keep notes of what worked well this winter, and consider long-term improvements in the spring or summer, such as upgrading insulation or windows when tradespeople are less in demand.
🏠 Warm, Efficient, and Ready for Anything – Energy Bills Explained: How to Save Money at Home This Winter
Saving energy doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort — it’s about making smart, simple choices that help your home run better.
At Redrose Estate Agents, we know that energy-efficient homes aren’t just cheaper to run — they’re more comfortable, sustainable, and attractive to buyers. Whether you’re planning to move or simply want to make the most of your current space, small improvements can make a big difference.
For a free, no-obligation chat, call us on 01772 456 558 and we’ll arrange for one of our advisers to get in touch.
Click here for Free Instant Rental or Selling Valuation
Click here to contact us today to learn more about how we can help you achieve your property goals. At Redrose, your journey to finding the perfect home starts here.
If you are thinking of renting out a property click here to see our comprehensive landlord services
Redrose Estate Agents – Find out all about us here https://redrose.co.uk/about-us/
- Call us on 📞01772 456558
- Email 📧sales@redrose.co.uk
- Call into our office at 15 Barnes Wallis Way, Buckshaw Village, Chorley, PR7 7JA
- Find out more https://redrose.co.uk/
- Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/redrosebuckshaw/
- Follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/redrose.co.uk
Copyright Redrose Estate Agents – Energy Bills Explained: How to Save Money at Home This Winter – 10 tips
Energy Bills Explained: How to Save Money at Home This Winter – 10 tips