We’ve had a great summer but inevitably it won’t be too long until we’re putting the heating on. Fuel price rises in recent months have been eye-watering, and the price cap on dual fuel costs, set at £3549 (the highest rate ever to date), comes into effect in October. There is much speculation that this is likely to rise again in January. Whilst the Government is pledging to help everyone with their bills, especially those on low incomes, it’s clear that we all need to do as much as we can ourselves to keep costs down. It’s not too late to look at switching your energy supplier. Many people stick with the same energy supplier, perhaps because they are unsure how to change, or they think it will be a complicated process. If you would like to easily compare prices, try ‘USwitch’ www.uswitch.com/gas-electricity. On the website you can enter your postcode and details of your current provider (have your bill to hand). Click ‘show me cheaper deals’ and it will provide a list of the suppliers that will save you the most money, and give you further details with an option to switch. If you don’t have access to the internet you can phone USwitch on freephone 0800 688 8244. It’s true that there are less deals to switch to in the current climate, but definitely worth checking.
It’s really important to give your boiler & heating system regular overhauls, and especially good to do it before the wintery weather descends to ensure they are working as efficiently as possible. If you would like to have your system serviced do call Home & Company and we can arrange for our plumber to visit you.
Did you know that the factory settings flow temperature on most boilers is set far higher than it needs to be (80 degrees). Jo at “The Heating Hub” says if you have a condensing boiler you can reduce the flow temperature to 60 degrees. You might be able to turn down the water temperature by a degree or so too. If you’re not sure what to do make sure you get a plumber to assist.
It’s worth having a look around your home and checking if you have any draughty doors and windows that would benefit from rubber seals and draught excluders. Remember that 25% of heat is lost through the roof so do invest in insulation if you haven’t already done so. Do give us a ring if you need the Home & Company handyman to help.
A simple tip, but make sure you open your curtains and blinds when it’s sunny to utilise the warmth, and shut them as soon as it’s dark. Wearing warm layers really helps, and we at the Home & Company office are very partial to a hot water bottle. Let’s hope we’re in for a mild winter this year.