Heating Bills Rise with Cold Months

In recent weeks temperatures have plummeted to an average 6 degrees cooler than the same period last year. People across the country have been turning up their thermostats as a result of the bitter cold. Many consumers many not know the cost implications this cold spell will have on their utility bills. Although it seems we are entering milder weather, forecasts have speculated that this February may prove to be one of the coldest on record.‹¯¨ Your central heating will be working overtime on these bitterly cold days to heat your home to a comfortable temperature. If the forecasts are correct then the amount of gas required to heat your home could increase by one-third. British customers will potentially pay an additional cost of £2.2billion this month compared to last year. For the average household that is an additional £84 a month added to their energy bills. With the current economic climate, these additional costs could not have come at a worse time. Household budgets are already stretched to their limits and people are struggling to make ends meet. Consumers are advised to focus on whether they are already paying too much for their energy bills and consider moving provider or scheme for a more cost effective plan. Comparing suppliers to acquire weather you are already paying too much for your energy bills, can be the key to recuperating this additional cost. Savings of £200-£300 are not uncommon for households that have not reviewed their supplier for 18 months. Optimizing the heating system you already have is an alternative, with great savings in the long run. Having the right sized radiators, draft excluding doors or thermostatic radiator valves and moving furniture can all contribute to saving money on your energy bills. Don’t let the cold weather get you down; you can still be warm without taking a mortgage out. ‹¯¨