Although the worst of the winter chill has passed, the hangover from this is the most shocking energy bill of the year. If you’re worried about paying your energy bill after months of climbing gas prices and freezing conditions, then help is at hand... In the shape of our handy energy bill management tips.
It’s worth mentioning before we go on that these tips are evergreen, and can be equally useful at any time of year.
Budget well
It will help if you’ve anticipated this bill in advance and set a little extra aside. But if it comes as a shock, whatever you do don’t ignore it! If you can’t pay it straight away, at least call your energy supplier and come to some sort of arrangement. They’re not monsters, and will be sympathetic to your predicament. They may well be able to spread your arrears by introducing a new scheme of paying them in installments.
Things only ever really get ugly if you don’t keep your supplier informed. So – if you can’t pay – get on the phone.
Pay the right way
Direct debits tend to be the best way to pay off your energy bills. There are two ways this can work. The first is that you make fixed payments based on the predicted annual bill. Alternatively the variable quarterly bill can be paid by direct debit, and this way there’s no margin for error. Plus with a direct debit you won’t accidentally miss your payments.
Crucially, suppliers also offer discounts for those who pay by direct debit. And everybody loves a discount.
Be efficient
Why not read Confused.com’s guide to reducing energy use and fuel bills. And for further local information concerning energy efficiency and reducing usage, you can drop the Energy Savings Trust a line on 0800 512 012.
Switch supplier or tariff
According to an ICM survey carried out on behalf of Age Concern last year*, despite a surge in energy costs last year, only 20% of consumers reviewed their energy supplier. Considering that customers who have never switched could save around £250** over the course of a year, this is doubly surprising. The question is – have you switched?
Switching energy providers and/or tariffs is not as difficult and time consuming as you may think. As long as you know either how much you currently pay or know your energy consumption – both of which will be on your bill – you could make considerable savings on your energy costs… In just a few steps! Why not dip your toe in by comparing energy tariffs at Confused.com, and see how much you can save.
*Age Concern press release dated 7/11/08
**Customers who switched gas and electricity (dual fuel) with Confused.com between 1st January 2008 and 31st December 2008 saved on average £252.37.
