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Keeping Warm, Saving Energy, and Finding Support

It’s that time of year again when the cold really bites and many of us worry about how to keep our homes warm without stretching the budget too far.
Sharing ideas and support can make a big difference, so here’s a collection of proven energy‑saving tips and details of where to turn if you’re still struggling.

Everyday Energy Saving Actions

• Switch off standby Devices like TVs, consoles, and microwaves still draw power when left on standby. This “phantom load” can add up to around 10% of your electricity use. Switching them off at the wall means you only pay for the energy you actually use.
• Turn down the thermostat Heating is the biggest part of most energy bills. Dropping the thermostat by just 1°C can cut heating costs by around 10% a year, while most people won’t notice the difference in comfort if they keep doors closed and use blankets.
• Use LED bulbs LEDs use up to 80% less energy than halogen bulbs and last much longer. That means fewer replacements and lower bills. A single bulb swap might feel small, but across the whole house it adds up.
• Shut doors & close curtains Heat escapes quickly through windows and open doors. Heavy curtains and keeping doors shut help trap warmth where you need it most, reducing the strain on your heating system.
• Limit hot water use Heating water is the second‑largest energy expense after space heating. Shorter showers, cooler laundry cycles, and only boiling what you need in the kettle all cut down on wasted energy.

More info: www.energysavingtrust.org.uk/campaign/energysaversweek

Home Improvements That Pay Off

• Insulation upgrades: Loft and cavity wall insulation can lead to potential savings of £250–£300 annually by keeping heat inside your home. Without insulation, up to a quarter of heat can escape through the roof.
• Seal gaps: Draught‑proofing doors, windows, and chimneys can lead to potential savings of around £60 per year. It also makes rooms feel warmer, meaning you’re less likely to turn the heating up.
• Efficient boiler: Old boilers waste energy. Upgrading to an A‑rated model can lead to potential savings of around £310 annually, as it uses fuel more efficiently to produce the same amount of heat.
• Smart heating controls: Programmable thermostats and smart radiator valves stop you heating empty rooms or running the boiler longer than needed. This reduces wasted energy without sacrificing comfort.
• Efficient appliances: Modern A‑rated appliances use up to 40% less energy than older models. When replacing, choosing efficient options pays off in lower bills over their lifetime.

Habit Changes That Add Up

• Shorter showers: Cutting just 2 minutes off a shower saves water and energy, adding up to around £60 per year for a family of four.
• Wash at 30°C: Modern detergents clean clothes effectively at lower temperatures. Washing at 30°C instead of 60°C can cut energy use by 40%.
• Batch cooking: Using the oven once for multiple meals reduces repeated heating cycles, saving both energy and time.
• Unplug chargers: Chargers and small devices draw power even when not in use. Unplugging them stops this “phantom drain.”
• Air dry clothes: Tumble dryers are among the most expensive appliances to run. Air drying can lead to potential savings of £70–£100 annually and is gentler on clothes.

If You’re Still Struggling

Even with good habits, some households may continue to face difficulties. That’s where extra support comes in.

Utilita Support

• High 5 campaign: www.utilita.co.uk/campaigns/high5
• Smart Score: the Smart Score is a feature in the My Utilita app that gives you a daily star rating (from 1 to 5) based on how efficiently you’re using energy.
  
  • It shows your usage patterns in real time, so you can spot when you’re using more than usual.
  • It provides personalised tips to help you improve your score, such as shifting appliance use or reducing wasted energy.
  • It acts as a motivator — aiming for a higher score helps build better habits and keeps bills lower. More info: www.utilita.co.uk/my-utilita
• Additional Support Credit (ASC): Emergency credit added to meters when you’re at risk of disconnection, with flexible repayment. - More info: community.utilita.co.uk/threads/2263-Changes-to-our-Additional-Support-Credit-%28ASC%29-process

Wider Support Avenues

• Household Support Fund (councils): www.gov.uk/government/publications/household-support-fund-guidance-for-local-councils/1-april-2025-to-31-march-2026-household-support-fund-guidance-for-county-councils-and-unitary-authorities-in-england
• Warm Home Discount: www.gov.uk/the-warm-home-discount-scheme
• Winter Fuel Payment: www.gov.uk/winter-fuel-payment
• Citizens Advice grants and benefits: www.citizensadvice.org.uk/consumer/energy/energy-supply/get-help-paying-your-bills/grants-and-benefits-to-help-you-pay-your-energy-bills
• Energy Guide fuel vouchers: www.energyguide.org.uk/free-gas-electric-vouchers

Final Thoughts

We know this winter feels harder than ever. Rising costs are frustrating, and it’s natural to feel like you’re doing everything right but still struggling to keep up. You’re not alone in that; many households are facing the same challenges.
The good news is that even small changes can make a difference, and there are support options out there if you need them. Whether it’s improving your Smart Score, accessing Additional Support Credit, or reaching out to your council or Citizens Advice for fuel vouchers, help is available.
Most importantly, remember that these steps aren’t about perfection, they’re about easing the pressure bit by bit. Together, we can get through the colder months without feeling left out in the cold.
We would love to see your Energy saving tips below to help other members.