UK households are being encouraged to move furniture such as sofas away from radiators to help bring energy bills down over winter. The tip is one of several "simple changes" people can make around their home to manage heating costs by preventing unnecessary usage, according to Gordon Wallis, spokesperson for fuel supply and distribution firm Your NRG.
The advice follows the announcement that millions of households will receive £100 energy payments to help with soaring bills. The measure, unveiled in the Chancellor's Budget on Wednesday, has been criticised as badly targeted and too small to protect households from the predicted energy cost rise in the New Year.
Simple changes to reduce energy use
Mr Wallis said households must remember the £100 payment is designed to provide "additional support" rather than cover entire winter energy costs. Instead, he outlined steps Britons can take at home to help reduce bills, including moving furniture that may block radiators.
He said: "Simple changes around the home can help households manage their consumption. Using heating controls effectively, reducing draughts around windows and doors, and making sure radiators aren't blocked by furniture can all help prevent unnecessary energy use. It's also worth reviewing your current energy tariff and checking whether you're eligible for additional assistance, such as the Warm Home Discount."
Energy Price Cap expected to rise
He added: "With energy prices remaining unpredictable, understanding how much energy your home uses and what support is available can make a real difference when planning for the months ahead."
The war in the Middle East has helped push energy prices higher this year, deepening the cost of living crisis. The Energy Price Cap is expected to rise by more than 25% in January, adding to consumer concerns.
£100 payment details and support
About 20 million households in England, Council Tax bands A to D, will receive the £100 cash payment to help with energy bills in January. Chancellor John Healey said funding would also be made available to the devolved governments of Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland to introduce the measure.
Scotland and Wales have confirmed they plan to implement their own schemes, while Northern Ireland Secretary Sir Chris Bryant said Stormont needed to agree its own budget before rolling out such payments. On Wednesday, Mr Healey also announced a VAT cut on electricity will be extended to July, and standing charges on gas bills will be scrapped from next year.
