"It is important to be prepared for winter and I want local residents to understand what help is available for them. Being energy efficient and keeping bills under control is important and I advise everyone in Carshalton and Wallington to get in touch with their energy supplier to find out what support is on offer”, said the MP.
Insulate your home
One of the best ways to be energy efficient and keep your home warm is to insulate it. Insulation can save you hundreds of pounds – for example loft insulation can save up to £140 and cavity wall insulation can save up to £160 per year in a typical semi-detached home. Schemes such as the Government ECO scheme may mean you qualify for free insulation. British Gas is for example currently offering free loft and cavity wall insulation as part the scheme. To find out if your home is suitable call British Gas free on 0800 316 4051 or visit: http://www.britishgas.co.uk/insulation.
Get the best deal
Make sure you are on the best gas and electricity tariff for you. You can use free comparison websites which take into account your circumstances and can suggest the best value tariff available. Consumers who used the independent comparison site Which? Switch to switch are currently saving an average of £297* a year on their gas and electricity bills. This is an average figure, so many customers save a lot more. You can use the Which? comparison tool here: http://switch.which.co.uk/
Boiler Grant and Scrappage Scheme
Under the Government’s ECO Scheme in 2016, qualifying homeowners and private tenants could have their old inefficient boilers replaced completely free of charge, or heavily subsidised. To find out if you qualify you can do so here: http://www.boilergrants.org.uk/index.php
Turn down your thermostat
Reducing room temperatures by just 1ºC can cut heating bills by up to £85-£90 a year in a typical home, according to the Energy Saving Trust. So put on a jumper rather than turn up the heating.
Extra support for vulnerable customers
Residents may be entitled to extra support from the Government and their energy supplier if they meet certain criteria. To find out more about the Warm Home Discount Scheme and see if you qualify visit: https://www.gov.uk/the-warm-home-discount-scheme/what-youll-get
The British Gas Energy Trust
The British Gas Energy Trust is an independent charitable trust that offers advice and support for people who are struggling with their household bills. For more information, visit: britishgasenergytrust.org.uk.
For further information on grants and schemes that can save you money on energy bills, please visit: https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/scotland/consumer/energy/energy-supply/get-help-paying-your-bills/grants-and-schemes-to-help-you-save-money-on-energy-bills-s/