Ofgem shares 10 easy ways for Brits to slash their energy bills

Energy regulator Ofgem has shared 10 practical energy saving tips designed to cut household energy use

Households could dramatically reduce their energy costs throughout the colder period by implementing several straightforward adjustments at home, new guidance from Ofgem reveals. The energy watchdog has issued 10 practical recommendations aimed at reducing domestic energy consumption.

The guidance emerges as recent forecasts indicate the energy price cap will drop by £117 in April due to government intervention to strip levies from bills. Ofgem said: “Small changes around the home can make a real difference to your energy bills – and adding in a few larger upgrades can save hundreds of pounds each year.”

Key recommendations include:

• Get a smart meter to track your energy use in real time.
• Install or top up loft insulation to keep heat in.
• Shower instead of taking a bath.
• Avoid using the tumble dryer.
• Draught-proof doors and windows.
• Turn appliances off at the plug rather than leaving on standby.
• Switch off lights that aren’t needed.
• Don’t overfill the kettle.
• Turn down the boiler thermostat.
• Fill the dishwasher before running it.

Small improvements

• Ofgem recommended washing clothes at 30°C, making sure the drum is full and choosing shorter cycles.
• Switch to energy-efficient LED bulbs – saving as much as £4 per bulb each year.
• Draught-proof doors and windows – seal gaps around windows and doors to retain heat, but take care not to block ventilation channels.
• Apply window film or secondary glazing – particularly beneficial for homes with single-glazed windows.
• Insulate your hot water tank – lagging your cylinder minimises heat loss.
• Fit smart thermostats and heating controls – programme your heating only when required for maximum savings.

Larger upgrades

• Purchase energy-efficient appliances – check the energy rating; A-rated devices are far cheaper to run than G-rated models.
• Fit double-glazed windows – retains heat and cuts heating bills.
• Insulate your home – even modest measures, such as radiator panels or loft insulation, can make a noticeable difference.

For households struggling with bills, the government also offers schemes such as Help to Heat grants, and your Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) can show you exactly what improvements will save the most money. The full advice can be found on the Ofgem website here.

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