What are households doing to keep energy bills down?

Rising energy costs are prompting households to keep a close eye on their gas and electricity usage.

Research by MyBuilder has found that more than three-quarters (76%) of Brits are monitoring their electricity usage.

Meanwhile, two-thirds (66%) are closely looking at their gas consumption when heating and cooking.

What practical steps are people taking to lower bills?

Many people are making small changes to their behaviour to save money on their bills.

For example, more than four in ten (41%) plan to just heat the room they’re using rather than their entire home.

And almost one in five (18%) are taking shorter showers.

By making just a few small changes like these, we can all reduce how much energy we use, and in turn, make our bills a little bit lower. 

Check our list of smart energy-saving tips for more easy ways to bring down your energy bill.

Energy bills causing conflict and anxiety

The impact of rising gas and electricity costs isn’t just financial.

More than one in three households (35%) are worried about how they’ll afford to heat their homes this winter.

And nearly two-fifths (38%) are so concerned that they dread opening their energy bills.

At the same time, one in ten admit that energy prices have led to arguments within their household.

So as well as lowering bills, cutting energy consumption at home could also help make your household happier and more harmonious, and give you a bit more confidence and certainty day-to-day.

What else can I do if I’m worried about energy bills?

If you’re feeling weighed down by energy bills, there are practical steps you can take.

Speak to your supplier

Contact your supplier as soon as possible, as they might be able to offer payment plans, grants and advice on managing your account.

See what benefits you can claim 

Use our benefits calculator or give us a call to find out if you’re eligible for any financial support.

Create a household budget

Work out exactly how much money you’ve got coming in each month and where it’s going, so you can prioritise essential bills and see where savings can be made.

Check our guide to creating a budget to find out more.

Ask for help with your debts

If you’re feeling weighed down by debt, contact us for confidential, practical and impartial debt advice.