Sometimes it’s easier to just keep the heating on all day, but with the cost-of-living skyrocketing and energy bills going up it just may not be in your budget. To save some extra cash, only put the heating on in the morning or when you’re in the house in the daytime. Turning off the heat an hour before you leave your home or go to sleep is the best way to make the most of the warmth. 

Wrap up warm! Investing in some high-quality thermals and thick jumpers and hoodies makes a big difference, especially during these frosty winter months. A popular option for students has got to be the Oodie, an oversized wearable blanket that’s perfect for keeping cosy and warm all around the house. 

Buy energy-efficient appliances. An air fryer alone costs on average 34p/hour less than the oven (and gets you a crispier chip faster). One of the sneaky energy drainers is the inefficient fan space heater, so remember not to use one unless necessary. Fit energy-efficient bulbs such as LEDs. These swaps may have a larger upfront cost but usually save you more money in the long run.

Wash at lower temperatures and avoid the tumble dryer! Don’t be afraid to hang up wet clothes to air dry, and using lower temperatures on your overall wash will save you a penny or two. Don’t be afraid of the cleanliness of the clothes themselves either, modern washing powders can keep your clothes clean at temperatures as low as 20C! 

Defrost your fridge and freezer. The frost build-up you can see at the back of your fridge and freezer is a complete energy drainer! It increases the amount of work your motor has to do, and if the motor has more work that means it’s using more energy (and it’s switched on 24/7, too). By regularly defrosting your fridge and freezer you can keep ice under control and make sure everything is running efficiently.

Take a shower instead of using the warm water in a bath, or even switch to a more energy efficient showerhead. When you’re using less water, you’re using less energy to heat it up, so shortening your shower time and avoiding taking baths is a quick and easy lifestyle change to keep costs down. 

In conclusion, keep an eye on your heating and instead opt for a warm jacket, keep on top of maintaining an efficient home and lifestyle and swap to more efficient appliances. Making these small changes can really make a difference in your energy bill!