Countless UK residents have been grappling with increased energy costs this winter as Ofgem, the energy regulator, hiked the energy price cap by an additional 0.2%. This increase comes on the heels of a 2% rise that occurred between October and December. To help reduce your energy bills, British Gas offers a practical tip that focuses on the time spent in the shower.
Research suggests that many people spend around 10 minutes showering, but cutting this down to just four minutes can significantly reduce energy consumption. British Gas advises that shortening shower time can lead to savings of up to £70 per year. Additionally, the Energy Saving Trust emphasizes that limiting shower duration not only saves money but also conserves approximately 17,000 liters of water annually.
While British Gas estimates potential savings of £45 per year for households by capping shower times at four minutes, the Energy Saving Trust concurs with this advice. Both organizations recommend other energy-saving tips, such as draught-proofing to prevent heat loss through gaps around doors, windows, and chimneys.
To detect heat loss areas, thermal cameras are recommended, with local councils often providing them for free. British Gas offers thermal imaging checks for £99, while Octopus Energy customers can access cameras through a borrowing scheme. Octopus Energy emphasizes the importance of energy efficiency for bill reduction and environmental benefits, especially amid rising energy costs.
For households willing to invest more, professional thermal surveys are available at around £300 for smaller homes and £750 for larger ones. Various energy-saving tips can be found on the websites of Energy Saving Trust, British Gas, and Octopus Energy. Remember, taking proactive steps to save energy not only benefits your wallet but also contributes to environmental sustainability.