24th January 2012
Homeowners who are looking to save money on their household bills by installing an electric central heating boiler should also check to make sure they are on the cheapest electricity tariff available.
Consumer Focus and Energy UK last week urged customers to find out how much they could save by switching energy deals, improving the insulation in their homes and ensuring they are on the cheapest payment plan.
According to government statistics, 9.6 million homes across the country do not have enough loft insulation, while 7.8 million lack adequate cavity wall insulation, which could be leading to excessive heat loss and therefore driving up bills during the winter months.
In a survey carried out by Consumer Focus, two-thirds of respondents thought their property could be more energy efficient, but seven in ten consumers have no plans to improve it.
Chief executive of the organisation Mike O'Connor commented: "Millions of consumers are finding it hard to afford higher energy bills and every penny that can be saved counts. Yet many people are paying more than they need to because their home is leaking heat and they aren't on the cheapest deal."
He noted that by calling their energy supplier, customers could make significant savings on their electricity bill.
"Changing to a cheaper tariff or payment type can cut your costs. Many people also don't realise that energy companies offer free or discounted insulation -and it's a waste not to take advantage of these offers, which could shave well over £100 off your bill every year," Mr O'Connor added.
Meanwhile, according to the Ecologist, a low-carbon British economy will rely on the electrification of our energy supply, which could encourage more people to invest in electric central heating.
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