Nearly half of households are adjusting their energy usage this winter due to soaring energy bills, a recent study has revealed.
Research conducted by MoneySuperMarket’s website indicates that 45% of respondents have postponed turning on their heating this season compared to the previous year.
Moreover, 10% of participants admitted to disagreements within their families regarding heating usage, while 6% expressed concerns that inadequate heating at home had led to someone falling ill.
These findings emerge just before Ofgem’s scheduled price cap rise to an average of £1,758 annually for numerous households, representing a 50% increase since the cap’s inception in 2019.
Survey results show that over half of households perceive a deterioration in their living expenses over the past year, with 31% reporting the need to make financial adjustments.
Laura Hinton, an Energy expert at MoneySuperMarket, highlighted the financial strain facing many households this holiday season due to escalating energy costs and other everyday expenses.
Hinton remarked that people are managing energy consumption by being cautious with heating, using energy-efficient appliances, and reducing festive lighting.
She suggested exploring fixed energy deals for potential savings, emphasizing the simplicity and benefits of switching online to potentially save up to £395 and shield against future price hikes.
Additionally, adopting smart meters can help monitor real-time energy usage by providing insights through an in-home display.
To aid households in cutting energy costs during the festive period, the Energy Saving Trust offers 12 recommendations, including adjusting boiler flow temperatures, utilizing draught excluders, and optimizing dishwasher and washing machine usage.
Other suggestions involve tweaking thermostat settings, embracing cozy attire, efficient oven usage for batch cooking, and employing LED or solar Christmas lights.
Furthermore, practical tips such as using timers for lights, cooling leftovers before freezing, and opting for rechargeable batteries can contribute to energy savings and sustainability.