Saving money on your gas and electricity

If you are keen to save money and reduce your gas and electricity bills, there are a number of measures you can take.

The first step is to look at your energy consumption to see if there are ways of reducing it. Simple but effective ways to cut your consumption include:

• Switching off lights when the room is not in use
• Replacing traditional light bulbs with energy saving versions
• Improving the insulation of loft spaces
• Switching appliances off rather than leaving them on standby when they are not in use
• Putting lids on saucepans when cooking, enabling you to turn down the heat
• Turning radiators off, or switching them to low, in rooms that aren't used regularly
• Replacing an old, out-dated boiler with a new, energy efficient one
• Choosing energy efficient models when you upgrade appliances, such as your fridge, dishwasher, washing machine and freezer
• Washing clothes on low temperatures and drying on a maiden or washing line, rather than using a tumble-drier

Key to saving money is to use a comparison service to compare energy suppliers and price plans. In the current climate of rising prices it's more important than ever to get the best value for money - and switching to a cheaper pricing structure can help you to keep your energy bills affordable. Read our switching guide switching guide to find out more.

Other ways to save include:

• Switching to a dual fuel package;
• Paying by Direct Debit; and
• Using an online price plan.

All three of these options usually qualify for discounts.

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