In September, I met with representatives from the British Gas ‘Smart Meter’ programme to help them in their campaign to raise awareness about smart meter instillation.
Smart Meters work to help you better manage your energy costs. By wirelessly communicating with your energy supplier, you won’t need to have your meter read and you can access your online account to get up to date information about how much you are using and its cost. These meters can also be programmed to manage your heating.
You may be eligible for a free smart meter as part of a new Government scheme, launched in May, to tackle fuel poverty and help people better manage their utility bills. By 2020 all homes and businesses will have smart meters, however, you would if you would like to find out if you are eligible to get a Smart Meter today, visit the British Gas Website here
Despite this programme, there are still many other ways that you can keep your home in good, efficient working order this winter and I am pleased to be able to share with you some useful tips on how to do this from the Energy and Utilities Alliance:
- Heating: If you can afford to do so, have your gas appliances and heating system serviced by a Gas Safe registered engineer. If you do not have one already, having a chemical inhibitor component fitted could help prolong the life of your boiler.
- Supplier: Switching your energy supplier and moving onto a cheaper tariff may help save you money. To find out how to switch please watch this video on the UK Energy YouTube channel here.
- Hot Water: Check your cylinder insulation, the pipes running to and from it, and set the hot water thermostat to no more than 60oC. This will still provide you with hot water and is safer for children.
- Radiators: Bleed your radiators to remove any trapped air and use the thermostatic valves to turn them off in any rooms you are not using. It is also advised that you do not cover your radiators.
- Check your pipes: Check all pipework to ensure that it is properly insulated andthere are no leaks. Fixing any faults immediately will help prevent against bursts.
- Heat only what you use: Only heat the rooms your use the most – you might not have to heat the entire house – using only a gas fire in your living room for example could help lower costs.
- Update your heating system: Have you considered getting your boiler replaced – old boilers are less efficient and could end up costing you more.
- Help keep the heat in: Blocking draughts, closing windows and drawing curtains could help you to keep the heat in your home for longer – improving efficiency and reducing cost.
- Know your system: Read the guides that accompany your central heating systems. Understanding how to use your gas boiler in full will ensure that you can use it to your advantage.
- If you don’t know, ask: Your local Gas Safe registered engineer and energy provider will be able to assist you if you are uncertain about how to get the best out of your energy and utilities this winter.