With summer now in full swing, thinking about keeping warm this winter will be the last thing on many people’s minds - especially when the sun is shining - but GoCompare energy is warning that bill payers who do not start prepping now, could be in for a shock later this year.
Energy prices have been at an all-time high during 2022, with the price cap increase in April causing shock waves for the industry and homeowners alike, research from GoCompare Energy found that 83% of bill payers have seen their energy costs increase this year.
And with Ofgem predicted to increase the price cap by 65% to an eye-watering £3,245 from October, the comparison site is warning everyone to get their energy admin in order during the summer months, to ensure they are prepared for the winter. But don’t worry if you’re not sure where to start, GoCompare have shared some simple steps everyone can follow to help lessen the blow later on.
Gareth Kloet, energy spokesperson at GoCompare, said: “It might sound counter-intuitive, but now is the best time to get your energy house in order.
“This is the time when you will use the least amount of gas and electricity and so, if you are able to, it might be worth upping your direct debit slightly to give yourself some credit for the coming winter months.”
GoCompare energy top tips to soften the winter price cap blow
- Catch up on any arrears you may have with your energy provider
- Use the warmer days and lighter evenings to cut back on energy usage around the house
- Make sure you are regularly providing meter readings to your energy provider so that your bills are up to date
- Try to resist asking for credit balances to be returned (if you are lucky enough to have one) or if you do, try to keep it in the bank for your next bill increase
- If you can, increase your monthly Direct Debit spend now so the next rise comes as less of a shock
GoCompare energy also suggests having a think about implementing any energy efficiency advice that you may have previously been putting off as it’s easier to do lots of those things in the summer than in the wintertime. For example, replacing windows and doors, boiler servicing or replacement, or flushing radiator systems to improve efficiency.
Gareth added: “If you do have credit with your energy provider, consider leaving it there for a rainy, or in this case, cold day. Having that credit could mean the difference between a massive hike or a smaller increase come October’s price cap implementation.
“If you have been advised to get double glazing fitted, or told that your boiler could do with a service - now is the time to do it, when the window fitters and particularly the plumbers are less busy. It will not only save you the stress of a broken boiler, but also could save you a few pounds, as efficient boilers and windows will save energy in the long run.”
For some other tips on how to save energy, visit the GoCompare website here.
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