How to Get the Lowest UK Home Energy Bills This Winter
Practical Savings for Every Home
Facing higher winter gas and electric bills? Discover proven ways to reduce your costs and stay warm for less. We’ll cover insulation tips, smart heating strategies, how to find the best tariff, and quick wins for saving energy at home—regardless of your property type.
Why Do Energy Bills Rise in Winter?
As temperatures drop, UK homes use more heating and lighting, making December–March the costliest months for energy. But with careful planning and our up-to-date tips, you can take control of your energy use and lighten the load on your budget.
1. Beat the Cold with Top-Notch Insulation
- Loft insulation: Up to 25% of heat escapes through the roof. Installing or topping up loft insulation is one of the cheapest ways to cut annual bills by £200+.
- Wall insulation: Most UK homes lose a third of heat through walls. Check if your home has cavity or solid wall insulation—energyplus.co.uk provides resources to get started.
- Draft-proof windows and doors: Apply self-adhesive strips or professional seals to stop cold air sneaking in and warm air escaping.
- Floor insulation: Seal gaps and consider underfloor insulation for added comfort.
Tip:
Check if you qualify for free government insulation grants or local council support! Many UK households can get help with the upfront cost.
2. Use Your Heating Wisely
- Program your thermostat: Set heating to come on only when needed (e.g. 6:30–8:30am and 5–10pm). Lowering your thermostat by just 1°C can save up to £120/year (Energy Saving Trust).
- Try zonal heating: Only heat rooms you’re using. Turn radiators off in unused areas and close doors to close off cold spots.
- Upgrade to a smart thermostat: Control heating remotely, set schedules, and avoid heating an empty home. See our Smart Home Guide.
- Bleed your radiators: Routinely remove air from radiators to maximise heat output—and avoid chilly corners.
3. Cut Appliance Energy Use Quickly
- Switch off at the socket: Don’t leave TVs, consoles, and computers on standby. You could save £50+ a year just by unplugging!
- Efficient lighting: Swap old bulbs for LEDs—they use 80% less energy and pay for themselves in under a year.
- Eco-wash settings: Run washing machines and dishwashers at 30°C. Air dry clothes when possible.
- Kettle sense: Only boil as much water as you truly need. Little habits add up over winter.
4. Switch to a Better Energy Deal
Still on a standard variable tariff? You might be overpaying. Use our energy switching tool to compare reliable UK suppliers and see if you can grab a cheaper rate. Switching is fast, hassle-free, and could knock £200-£300/year off your bill.
What to look for:
- No exit fees—so you can switch again if prices move.
- Fixed tariff options to protect against price hikes.
- Green energy deals, which are often competitively priced and environmentally friendly.
5. Make the Most of Energy Support Schemes
Many UK residents can receive winter fuel payments, the Warm Home Discount, or additional cost of living help. Explore our dedicated energy support hub to find the help you’re entitled to.
- Check eligibility for Winter Fuel Payment: Most pensioners qualify automatically.
- Apply for the Warm Home Discount if you’re on certain benefits.
- More support via local schemes—see what's available in your area.
Want Personalised Winter Savings?
Use our free Energy Plus Home Bill Checker for a tailored report with your top energy-saving actions and best local deals.
Try the Home Bill CheckerQuick Checklist for Lower UK Home Energy Bills
- Switch to a cheaper energy supplier
- Boost insulation (loft, wall, and draught proofing)
- Smart heating controls and schedules
- Switch off unused appliances (no standby!)
- Use energy-efficient lighting
- Tap into government energy support
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