As the chill of winter approaches and energy prices continue to soar, many homeowners are feeling the financial pinch. With the rising cost of living, finding effective ways to save on energy bills has never been more crucial. The property experts at John D Wood & Co. are stepping in to help with practical tips that can significantly reduce your energy costs without sacrificing comfort.
Kesha Foss-Smith, an expert at John D Wood & Co., emphasises that you don’t need to make drastic changes to see substantial savings. “Many homeowners don’t realise that small, strategic adjustments can lead to meaningful reductions in their energy expenses,” she explains. “Whether it’s making your home more energy-efficient or simply changing your habits, there are plenty of ways to keep more money in your pocket while staying cosy throughout the colder months.”
With energy bills expected to rise further this winter, Kesha shares her top five expert tips for cutting down on costs. From upgrading your insulation to considering solar panels, these recommendations will help you take control of your energy expenses.
Here are Kesha’s top tips to cut down on energy costs:
1. Upgrade Your Insulation
Keeping your home well-insulated and draft-free is one of the easiest ways to stay warm and save on energy bills this winter. Focus on areas like your loft, walls, and floors. Loft insulation can save around £300 a year, while cavity wall insulation can cut heat loss by up to 35%, saving up to £250 annually.
Underfloor insulation is another great for older homes, especially those with wooden floorboards that may let in drafts. Don’t forget to check for drafts around windows, doors, and electrical outlets. “Sealing gaps with weather stripping or caulk can save you about £50 a year,” says Kesha Foss-Smith. “A draft excluder or even a towel at the base of a door can help too.” For added savings, consider double glazing or secondary glazing film. To make insulation upgrades more affordable, homeowners can explore government support like the Energy Company Obligation (ECO) or Green Homes Grant schemes, which provide funding or discounts on energy-saving home improvements.
2. Switch to Energy-Efficient Lighting and Smart Lighting Systems
Lighting can account for up to 15% of a household’s energy usage. “Switching to LED bulbs is one of the simplest ways to cut your electricity costs,” Kesha says. “LED bulbs use up to 90% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and cost around £2–£5 each, compared to £1 for incandescents. However, they last significantly longer, saving you up to £75 annually on lighting costs.”
For even more savings, consider installing motion sensor lights in low-traffic areas like hallways, bathrooms, and corridors. These can automatically turn off when no movement is detected, reducing unnecessary electricity usage. Dimmers and timers can also help you control lighting more efficiently, ensuring lights aren’t left on longer than needed.
3. Upgrade to a Smart Thermostat
A smart thermostat is one of the most effective ways to save on heating. These devices learn your routine and adjust the temperature automatically, ensuring you’re not wasting energy when you don’t need it.
“Smart thermostats can save you up to £75 a year by only heating your home when it’s necessary,” Kesha advises. Consider investing in a thermostat that offers zoning capabilities, which allows you to control the temperature in different rooms. For example, you might want to keep the living room warm but reduce the heating in unused bedrooms. This means you can heat only the areas of your home that are in use, which helps avoid wasting energy on empty rooms.
4. Consider Solar Panels
Solar panels are a great investment for long-term savings. “Though the initial cost may seem high—usually £6,000 to £8,000 for a typical system—solar panels can save you around £150 per year on your electricity bills,” says Kesha. “In addition to saving money, they can increase the value of your home by around 4%.” The UK government’s Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) allows you to earn money for any excess energy your panels produce and send back to the grid. This helps offset the installation cost, making solar panels even more financially appealing over time.
5. Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Appliances
When it’s time to replace old appliances, choosing energy-efficient models can lead to substantial long-term savings. “Energy-efficient appliances, like refrigerators, washing machines, and dishwashers, are designed to use less power,” Kesha explains. “For example, a modern fridge can use up to 50% less electricity than older models.” These models may cost more upfront, but the great news is they can save you £200 to £300 a year on energy bills over their lifetime. Look for appliances with the Energy Star label or the EU Energy Label, which indicate superior energy efficiency.
6. Optimise Your Boiler and Heating System
Your boiler and hot water system can be major sources of energy waste if not maintained properly. “Ensure your boiler is serviced regularly to keep it running at peak performance,” advises Kesha. “A faulty or inefficient boiler can waste a lot of energy, increasing your bills unnecessarily.”
Insulating your hot water tank and pipes can further improve efficiency and cut down costs. “By insulating your hot water tank, you can save around £30 annually,” Kesha adds. “Foam pipe insulation is an easy DIY solution that prevents heat loss from water as it travels through your system. For even better results, consider upgrading to a condensing boiler, which is significantly more energy-efficient than older models. Also, if possible, install a smart heating controller that allows you to monitor and adjust your heating remotely. This means you can ensure the heating isn’t running while you’re away, avoiding waste.”
7. Consider Layering Up When You Can
It sounds simple, but throwing on an extra jumper or using a blanket instead of cranking up the heat can make a huge difference. “By lowering your thermostat by just 1–2 degrees, you could save up to 10% on your heating bill,” Kesha explains. “Layering up with cosy sweaters and socks, or using blankets in the living room, means you can stay warm without over-relying on your heating system.”
For added warmth, consider investing in products designed to keep you cozy, such as electric blankets and heated throws. “These can cost as little as 2–3p an hour to run and are far more efficient than turning up the thermostat.”
8. Cut Standby Power and Turn Off Unused Electronics
Electronics that are left on standby mode continue to consume power even when they’re not in use. “Standby power, or ‘phantom power,’ can account for up to £65 annually in energy waste,” Kesha warns. Appliances like TVs, game consoles, and microwave ovens are some of the biggest culprits. A plugged-in coffee maker, for instance, can cost around £20 annually even when not in use. Switch off devices at the wall or use smart plugs to cut off power to multiple devices conveniently.
With the cost of living continuing to rise, there are also programs and financial support available to help ease the burden of energy costs. Many homeowners may be unaware of schemes that could make energy-saving improvements more affordable.
What support is available with bills?
Although the Winter Fuel Payment was scrapped by the new government, there are still alternative support options available to help with energy costs. According to Kesha Foss-Smith, “Programs like Octopus Energy’s Octo Assist Fund, which offers discretionary credits ranging from £50 to £200, can make energy-saving improvements more affordable. British Gas is also offering up to £1,700 in debt relief for energy bills—even for non-customers. These programs can ease the financial strain during the colder months, allowing homeowners to invest in energy-saving upgrades without breaking the bank.”
As we gear up for colder months, incorporating these tips can help homeowners fight rising energy bills without sacrificing comfort. “Saving energy isn’t just about cutting costs; it’s about creating a more sustainable home for the future,” Kesha adds.
Credit: John D Wood & Co
Founded in 1872, the property experts at John D Wood & Co have specialised in selling residential property in London and the South of England for over 150 years.
