According to the latest data, there’s been a 24% rise in the cost of natural gas and a 9% rise in electricity since last year.
It’s meant that our energy bills are going through the roof every single month. We’re paying way more than we were twelve months ago, despite using the same amount of energy. The worst thing about it is that a lot of the reasons for the rising energy costs can’t be solved any time soon. Both the pandemic and the conflict in Ukraine have impacted energy companies, leading to spikes in prices.
Put simply, this looks like an issue that will persist for at least another year, maybe more. So, you need to know how to deal with the rising energy costs. What can you do to save money every month without compromising your comfort at home?
Dress correctly for the seasons
The way you dress can have a direct correlation to your energy bill. In a simple sense, you need to wear the right clothes to handle the different seasons.
In winter, when you’re likely to have your heating system on, you need to dress warmly. Wear thick jumpers and socks inside, making you feel warm. As a result, you can turn the thermostat down and consume less energy without feeling uncomfortably cold.
The opposite is true in the summer; wear fewer clothes to feel cool. Again, it means you can stop putting the AC on as often or as powerfully as before. Energy is saved, and you don’t feel too sweaty or hot.
Upgrade your roof
Sometimes, it’s better to invest in something as it helps you save a ton of money in the near future.
Investing in a roof upgrade is one genius way of combatting the rising energy costs. Essentially, you should opt for a more energy-efficient option, like standing seam metal roofing. It absorbs more heat in the winter to keep you warm, yet repels the sun in the summer to keep you cool. This can drastically decrease your reliance on energy for temperature control.
Or, you could upgrade your roof with solar panels to supplement your home with free electricity. This lessens the demand on the national grid, helping you save money.
Utilize your windows properly
The final tip is to take advantage of your windows and use them how they should be used.
Open your windows to ventilate your home in the summer, preventing the need for air conditioning all throughout the day. Close them in the winter to seal your home and insulate it effectively.
At the same time, open your blinds and curtains during the day to allow natural light into your property. This limits the time spent with your lights on. It can mean that you only ever need to turn lights on when the sun sets, leading to massive electricity savings.
Lowering your energy bill isn’t just a smart financial decision, it’s essential in this day and age. As energy costs keep on rising, it’s becoming harder and harder to afford to live. Finding ways to cope with the price hikes will allow you to save money and avoid financial hardships.