Consumers have started receiving letters and emails from their energy suppliers regarding price hikes, with the average bill expected to rise to £1,971 from April 1. For anyone looking to keep the costs as low as possible, there are a few things that can be done. Experts at Uswitch.com have shared some tips on how to get prepared for the increases and combat the costs.
1. Use a smart meter to monitor your energy usage.
A smart meter will show how much energy you are using each day.
This will help you make more informed decisions such as how high you have your heating, and provide an insight into what the most energy-guzzling appliances are.
You can use this information to create a budget to keep your spending under control.
2. Take a meter reading
At the end of this month, March 31, it is advisable to take a meter reading and submit it to your supplier, if you don’t have a smart meter.
This puts you in control, with knowledge and proof of how much energy you used before April 1 ahead of the new rates coming into effect and will help ensure your bill is accurate.
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7. Stay up to date with what’s happening in the energy market to see what deals are on offer.
By signing up for alerts, you will be informed when a deal comes along and will be ready to switch if it is right for you.
Uswitch Quick Checker provides personalised information about your energy plan and a recommendation of what you should do.
Some providers are offering fixed deals to their customers directly that may be better valued than those offered on the wider market.
If you get a notification from your supplier with a deal that looks affordable, consider fixing it, as these deals can get snapped up very quickly.
8. Set a budget
Have a budget in mind if you are considering signing up for a fixed deal.
Just because a deal is available, doesn’t mean you should go for it.
Make sure you know how much you are already paying for your energy and compare that with the deal available.
9. Check your other household bills.
At the moment you might not be able to save when it comes to your energy, but that doesn’t mean you can’t cut costs across your other household bills.
Reviewing your broadband, TV and mobile contracts could be a quick and simple way to reduce your monthly outgoings.
10. £150 tax rebate in April
From next month, there is a £150 council tax rebate available.
If you accept it, you can keep the money and put it towards your energy bills.
People who pay by direct debit will automatically get this rebate paid directly into their account, so it is worth considering setting up a direct debit to receive the rebate quicker.
Those who pay by other methods will be contacted by their council and invited to make a claim.
If you are in a higher council tax band and not eligible for the rebate, keep an eye out for the discretionary £140 million funds being set up to help those who are struggling.
Justina Miltienyte, an energy expert at Uswitch.com, says: “Energy prices are about to go up but this does not mean you are completely powerless.
“By taking some simple steps ahead of April 1 and taking control of your energy use and bills, you can make sure that you are best prepared for the incoming increases.
“While there is nothing you can do to reduce the actual cost of energy, you can get into good energy-saving habits to save money around the home and reduce your overall bill.
“However, if you are worried about getting into debt, get in touch with your provider as soon as possible, as they can help you find a solution.”
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