Gas and electricity bills for around 22 million households across the UK shot up by £693 per year from April 1 in-line with Ofgem’s 54 per cent increase to the energy price cap.
This means the average household energy bill will rocket to around £1,971 per year while homes on pre-payment meters will see costs go up by £708 to £2,017. Prices are expected to go up again when Ofgem reviews the price cap in August, with the change coming into effect at the start of October.
However, there are several handy household items that you can buy to keep the heat inside your home and energy costs down.
Online marketplace OnBuy has compiled a list of the best low-cost items that could help you slash your energy bills as we head into summer.
ThermAll Radiator Heat Reflector - £8.49
Placing a thin strip of reflector foil behind your radiator is a simple and accessible method to help reduce heat loss in the house.
Acting as a barrier, the foil ensures heat is reflected into the room, which can save up to 70% of heat that’s normally lost into the wall.
Foldable Extra-Large 3 Tier Clothes Airer - £28.99
While convenient, using a tumble dryer regularly consumes a lot of energy, which can add a small fortune to your monthly energy bill.
A drying rack, or clothes horse, is a great way to dry clothes indoors without blocking radiators or using up a lot of electricity.
Energy efficient lightbulbs - £7
Replacing your current light bulbs with LED lights such as the Osram B22d 30 Watt Halogen Eco Bulb is a clever way to save money for the long-haul and cut your carbon emissions at the same time.
Lighting makes up 11 per cent of the average UK household electricity consumption, and if you switch to LED lights you could also reduce your carbon dioxide emissions by 40kg a year.
Washing Up Bowl - £5.99
Another easy and cheap way to save money is by investing in a simple washing up bowl.
With the average household using 349 litres of water each day, there is lots of opportunity for water waste - which ultimately comes out of your pocket via your Council Tax bill.
AirComfort Itch Free Loft Thermal Insulation Roll - £37.99
According to Which?, having a properly insulated loft can help save up to £315 per year on your energy bills.
If your loft is accessible, installation is an easy task and does not require a professional - making this an achievable way to save money.
Micro-Fleece Draught Excluder - £7.25
Draughty homes are not just an inconvenience, but the heat lost through draughts can account for 10 per cent of winter energy bills, and 20 per cent on average every year.
Placing draught excluders at the bottom of your doors is a simple way to keep yourself warm and stop your money literally slipping through the cracks.
For a free alternative, just roll up towels or a blanket to block the gap between the floor and the door.
Foam Insulation Weather Strip Seal (4.5m) - £10.55
If you have draughty floorboards or windows, then using sealing strips is a good way to keep out the cold.
Easy to apply, with self-adhesive peelable backing, you can cut the tape to any desired length.
These are also available on Amazon for as little as £3 for three rolls.
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