You are here: Home | Home Repairs, Grants and Adaptations | Home Energy Efficiency and Affordable Warmth

Home Energy Efficiency and Affordable Warmth

Is keeping warm a big cost?

» View pages in this section

Is keeping warm a big cost?

Many of us find it difficult to pay for our fuel, especially in the winter months. This could be because our home needs a lot of energy to warm up, because we are on a limited income, or because we waste some of the energy we use.

Homes which are inadequately heated can be a risk to health, especially for the very old or the very young.

To help make your home affordable to heat:

  • Improve the insulation and heating system. You may be entitled to grants or discounts to insulation your home or provide more efficient heating system.
  • Check your supply and payment options It is worth shopping around to find the best price for your fuel as different companies supply gas and electricity at different rates. Most customers can switch free of charge as long as you are not in debt with your fuel supplier. Check whether you are getting the best deal for energy by going to the Energy Watch website.
    There are different ways of paying for your fuel ranging from prepayment meters to direct debit. Some are more expensive than others so it may be worth checking with your fuel supplier the cheapest option.
  • Check your Income Find out whether you are entitled to benefits by calling the Bucks County Council Welfare benefits team on 01296 or email benefits@buckscc.gov.uk.
  • Check your budgeting For advice on budgeting and fuel debt, you can talk to the Citizen's Advice Bureau. If you find yourself owing money to your fuel supplier you should call the company to discuss your options. It may be possible to change the payment method or agree with the supplier a way to meet both their needs and yours. The important thing is not to leave it too late.
  • Be less wasteful Having an energy efficient home and heating system, and the best possible payment method, will only go so far towards reducing our fuel bills. If you misuse your heating system and appliances you will still be throwing money down the drain. Follow the Energy Saving Trust's tips for reducing energy use in your home.
  • Call the Affordable Warmth Helpline for free, impartial advice.
Pages in Home Energy Efficiency and Affordable Warmth