{"id":2169,"date":"2014-01-20T09:00:52","date_gmt":"2014-01-20T09:00:52","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.anytrades.co.uk\/?p=2169"},"modified":"2014-01-20T09:00:52","modified_gmt":"2014-01-20T09:00:52","slug":"five-ways-save-small-fortune","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.local-quotes.co.uk\/guides\/eco-homes\/five-ways-save-small-fortune\/","title":{"rendered":"Five ways to save a small fortune"},"content":{"rendered":"

Have you realised how much your energy bills have increased over the last decade? The chances are you\u2019ve watched your expenses rising, but the total amount is quite staggering.<\/p>\n

In fact, since 2004 your energy bills will have doubled and by 2020 experts predict they\u2019ll double yet again, with no sign of a reprieve.<\/p>\n

Our annual dual fuel bills are now at around \u00a31,300, so you\u2019ll probably want to save money on these expenses. Take a look at our five tips below to become more efficient and save money in the process.
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1. Use less energy<\/h2>\n

This isn\u2019t exactly rocket science; if you use less energy your bills will be reduced. But this isn\u2019t always easy and the chances are you\u2019re quite stringent with the amount you do use. So have you considered a smart meter? By installing one of these you\u2019ll be able to monitor exactly how much energy is being used at a particular time and identify appliances using too much \u2013 even when they\u2019re simply on standby.<\/p>\n

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2. Improve insulation<\/h2>\n

If you want to save money on your heating, then one excellent idea is to invest in insulation for the home. It\u2019s worrying how much heat is wasted in the UK because of inefficient properties, so have a think about all the areas you could improve. Loft insulation is a great place to start as heat naturally rises. It won\u2019t set you back too much and you can save up to \u00a3200 a year for decades. Other things to consider are cavity wall insulation and efficient windows.<\/p>\n

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3. Produce your own energy<\/h2>\n

Are you simply fed up of forking out on energy as prices are continually increasing? Then perhaps it\u2019s time to join thousands of other homeowners in the UK and generate your own heat or electricity to avoid rising prices. Solar panels are the most popular option and with a range of Government incentives you can save and earn over \u00a3700 a year. A heat pump is another option too which will only grow in popularity during 2014 because of an increase in Government funding.<\/p>\n

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4. Switch your energy supplier<\/h2>\n

How long have you been with your current supplier? Do you know which supplier offers the cheapest energy rates? It could well be time to switch supplier and benefit from cheaper gas and electricity costs. By doing so you could save as much as \u00a3300 a year. And don\u2019t worry because it\u2019s no hassle to you, with the new supplier taking care of all the paperwork.<\/p>\n

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5. Upgrade your home<\/h2>\n

Have you let your home\u2019s efficiency slip over the years by not modernising it? Perhaps you have an old boiler which is working at just 70%. Upgrading to an A-rated condensing boiler can save you up to \u00a3310 each year. Do you still use old light bulbs rather than energy saving ones? Would your home benefit from a new, energy efficient composite door? Take a look at your home and see the areas you think could be improved to boost your efficiency levels.<\/p>\n

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By following our tips you could save hundreds and even thousands of pounds every year on your gas and electricity bills, so now\u2019s the time to take action. Monitor how much energy you\u2019re using on a day-to-day basis and be proactive in seeking ways to minimise this expense.<\/p>\n

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Facts & Figures You’ll Love To Share <\/strong><\/p>\n