How To Save Money On Your Household Bills This Autumn

As we transition into autumn, the cooling temperatures and shorter days often bring an increase in household bills. But with a few steps, you can reduce these costs and keep your finances on track. Here’s how you can save money on your household bills this September.

Monitor Your Energy Usage
With the cooler weather approaching, it’s tempting to turn up the heating. However, being mindful of your energy consumption can lead to significant savings.

1. Set Your Thermostat Wisely: Lower your thermostat by just one degree to save around 10% on your heating bill. Consider using a timer to ensure the heating only comes on when needed.
2. Layer Up: Instead of relying solely on heating, wear warmer clothing indoors. Blankets and thermal socks are great ways to stay warm without increasing energy costs.
3. Insulate Your Home: Prevent heat from escaping by ensuring your home is well-insulated. Draught-proof windows and doors, and consider thicker curtains for added insulation.

Optimise Your Appliance Usage
Everyday household appliances can consume more energy than you might realise. Optimising their usage can lead to lower bills.

• Use Energy-Efficient Appliances: If you’re in the market for new appliances, choose those with a high energy-efficiency rating. They might have a higher upfront cost, but they save money in the long run.
• Be Smart with Laundry: Wash clothes at 30 degrees and only run full loads to minimise energy use. Where possible, air-dry your clothes instead of using a tumble dryer.
• Unplug Unused Devices: Appliances left on standby still consume power. Unplug devices when they’re not in use, or invest in a standby saver to automatically cut off the power.

Review Your Utility Providers
Utility costs can vary significantly depending on your provider. Regularly reviewing and switching suppliers can lead to substantial savings.

• Compare Energy Tariffs: Use comparison websites to find the best energy deals. Many suppliers offer discounts for switching, and fixed tariffs can protect you from price increases.
• Consider Bundling Services: Some providers offer discounts if you bundle your services, such as gas, electricity, and broadband, with them. Review your options to see if you can benefit.
• Check for Water-Saving Devices: Contact your water supplier to see if they offer free water-saving devices, such as efficient showerheads or cistern bags, which can reduce your water usage.

Reduce Food Costs
Food is a major household expense, but with careful planning, you can reduce your grocery bills without compromising on quality.

• Plan Your Meals: Create a meal plan for the week to avoid impulse buys and reduce food waste. Stick to your shopping list and avoid shopping when hungry.
• Buy in Bulk: For non-perishable items, buying in bulk can be more cost-effective. However, make sure you have enough storage space and that you’ll use the items before they expire.
• Take Advantage of Offers: Look out for discounts, but only buy items on offer if you were planning to purchase them anyway. Loyalty schemes and cashback apps can also provide savings on your regular shops.

Consider Smart Home Investments
Smart technology can help you monitor and reduce your household bills over time.

• Smart Thermostats: These allow you to control your heating remotely and learn your habits to optimise energy use. Some models even provide reports on your energy consumption, helping you to identify where you can cut back.
• Energy Monitors: These devices track your energy use in real-time, showing which appliances are costing you the most. Understanding your consumption can lead to more informed decisions about your usage.
• Smart Lighting: LED bulbs use significantly less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs, and smart lighting systems allow you to control lights remotely, ensuring they’re only on when needed.

Embrace a Frugal Mindset
Lastly, adopting a frugal mindset can help you find savings in everyday life.

• Repair, Don’t Replace: Before throwing away broken items, consider whether they can be repaired. This applies to everything from clothing to electronics.
• DIY Home Improvements: Simple DIY tasks, like re-sealing windows or adding draught excluders, can make your home more energy-efficient at a fraction of the cost of hiring a professional.
• Use Public Transport or Carpool: If possible, reduce fuel costs by using public transport or setting up a carpool with colleagues.

Give yourself time to take stock of your household bills and implement changes that can lead to long-term savings. By being proactive and making small adjustments, you can reduce your expenses and keep your household budget under control as we move into the colder months.

For more financial tips and support, visit our blog and visit the MoneyHelper if you need help to manage your bills.