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How To Reduce Household Bills

The rise in living costs has led to many homeowners wondering how to reduce household bills so money and energy go further. These money-saving tips offer smart ways to use less power, cut back on food waste, and retain the heat around the home to lower monthly outgoings and encourage a more sustainable setup in any property. With energy-efficient products, everyday tasks can be more affordable, while simple switches can prevent heat loss to stay warm and cosy through cold snaps.

Lower energy

More people are investing in energy-efficient tech to reduce power and save money while doing so. From cooking to cleaning, these recommendations focus on lowering water and electric.

1. Switch to cool washes

Washing clothes at 30 degrees can save up to £90 a year- with many detergents effectively cleaning on cool spins. Look for Eco Wash when replacing a machine.

See washing machines
2. Dry for less

Invest in heat pump technology to reduce energy when drying laundry. By reusing the hot air generated during each cycle, these models can save up to £130 a year.

See tumble dryers

3. Introduce induction

Using electromagnetism, induction only heats the pan saving energy spent on residual heat. A typical stir fry uses 17% less power than other cooking methods.

See induction hobs
4. Make way for multi-function

Instead of running a separate fridge and freezer, choose a model that combines both. This means you will only power one device saving on electric.

See fridge freezers

5. Skip washing by hand

Cleaning dishes by hand uses up to four times more water than a dishwasher when rinsing the same number of place settings. Switch to save time too.

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6. Tap into new tech

Swap a kettle for a boiling water fixture which only heats the water required. Or use a tap with a spray function that aerates water to make it go further.

See kitchen taps

Cut food costs

Another way to drive down household costs is to review the weekly shop. With the right products and storage, groceries can last longer, go further, and give you the best value for money.

1. Freeze meals

Make the most of ingredients by freezing leftovers before the use-by date. This will build a stock of meals to replace takeaways on busy days.

See freezers
2. Keep food fresh

Look for models with features that keep fruit and veg fresh. Salad crispers extend the life of perishable items so groceries go further.

See fridges

3. Buy in bulk

Purchase dry goods, like grains and pulses, in large quantities to cut costs at the checkout. Store in a larder for the best conditions to keep legumes longer.

See larder storage
4. Store smart

Use pull-out accessories to organise root vegetables, such as onions and potatoes. Keeping produce dry and cool will make ingredients last.

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5. Embrace batch cooking

Plan extra portions to maximise energy used during cooking. A double cavity cooker offers extra space to double up on dishes during food prep.

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6. Fix food fast

Cooking meals in a microwave can save time and energy. For example, a humble jacket potato can save up to £30 a year, when cooked once a week.

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Retain heat

Central heating is one of the most expensive fuels to run which can easily escape a home without proper insulation. These tips limit energy loss to make monthly costs more manageable.

1. Defeat drafts

Update an entrance with a composite door that has a robust core to withstand the elements. These models are renowned for their energy-saving benefits.

See composite doors
2. Fit frames correctly

Protect against energy loss by fitting doors with the right parts. This will retain heat in regularly-used rooms rather than heating the whole house.

See door fittings

3. Choose cosy floors

Vinyl flooring doesn't fluctuate in temperature like other floorboard options meaning it retains heat and is great for keeping homes toasty.

See vinyl flooring
4. Improve insulation

Reseal windows and doors to prevent heat from escaping through gaps in the frame. A simple and affordable fix that makes a house more energy efficient.

See sealants

5. Get better heat habits

Invest in regular maintenance and servicing of your central heating system, like bleeding radiators once a year, to ensure it distributes heat efficiently.

See central heating treatments
6. Shine a light on savings

Opt for LEDs to cut back on electricity bills. Using less energy than traditional filaments, these bulbs will last longer to prevent costly replacements.

See LED bulbs