Let's be honest — energy bills have been a nightmare for UK families over the last few years. Even though prices have come down from their 2022 peak, the average household is still paying far more than they were just a few years ago. The good news? There are real, practical things you can do right now to shrink that bill. You don't need to be a financial wizard. You just need a few minutes and the right information — and that's exactly what Terry is here for.
Step 1: Know What You're Currently Paying (Most People Don't!)
Before you can save money, you need to know what you're actually spending. Dig out your latest energy bill or log into your supplier's app. Check your unit rate for electricity and gas, plus your standing charge. These are the two numbers that really matter when comparing deals. If you're on your supplier's standard variable tariff — which is the default rate most people end up on — there's a very strong chance you're overpaying. Fixed-rate deals from other suppliers can sometimes be hundreds of pounds cheaper per year for the exact same energy. Knowing your current rate is the first step to beating it.
Step 2: Start Comparing and Switching Tariffs
The energy market has opened up again, and fixed-rate tariffs are back. That means switching could genuinely save you serious money. Use a trusted comparison service (like TrueSaver!) to check what deals are available in your area. You'll need your postcode, your current supplier's name, and a rough idea of how much energy you use each year — your bill will show this in kilowatt hours (kWh). Don't be put off by the idea of switching. It's much simpler than it sounds, takes around 15 minutes online, and your supply won't be interrupted for even a second. If you find a deal that's cheaper, lock it in. Fixed tariffs give you price certainty, which is a real comfort when the news keeps talking about energy market uncertainty.
Step 3: Check if You're Entitled to Government Help
Millions of UK households are missing out on free money simply because they don't know it exists. Here's what to check:
- Warm Home Discount: If you're on a low income or receive certain benefits like Pension Credit, you may qualify for a £150 discount automatically applied to your electricity bill each winter. Check with your supplier.
- Winter Fuel Payment: If you were born before a certain date, you may qualify — though eligibility rules changed in 2024, so check the government website for the latest.
- Energy Company Obligation (ECO4): This government scheme funds free insulation and heating upgrades for eligible low-income households. If your home is poorly insulated, this could save you far more than switching alone.
- Cold Weather Payments: If temperatures drop below zero for seven days in a row, some benefit claimants get an automatic £25 payment to help cover heating costs.
It's worth spending 20 minutes on the government's benefits checker at gov.uk to make sure you're not leaving money on the table.
Step 4: Simple Changes That Shave Pounds Off Your Bill Every Month
Switching tariffs is the big win, but small habits add up too. Heating your home accounts for around 55% of the average energy bill, so that's where to focus. Turning your thermostat down by just one degree can save around £100 a year. Bleeding your radiators keeps them working efficiently. A smart meter lets you see in real time exactly where your money is going — ask your supplier for one if you haven't already, they're free. Also, switch to LED bulbs if you haven't yet — they use up to 90% less electricity than old-style bulbs and last for years.
Terry's Top Tips 🐢
- Submit regular meter readings to avoid estimated bills — estimates are often wrong and can leave you owing money or in unexpected credit.
- Don't auto-renew without checking — when a fixed deal ends, you'll be moved to the standard tariff. Set a calendar reminder a month before your deal expires to shop around.
- Check your direct debit amount — many suppliers overcollect, leaving customers sitting on large credit balances. You're entitled to ask for that money back.
- Look at dual fuel deals — getting both gas and electricity from the same supplier can sometimes (not always) be cheaper, and it means one bill to manage.
- Tell your supplier if you're struggling — energy companies are required to help customers in financial difficulty. Payment plans, debt help, and emergency credit are all available if you ask.
Energy bills don't have to keep draining your wallet. Whether you switch tariffs, claim support you're entitled to, or make a few smart changes at home, every pound saved is a pound back in your pocket — where it belongs. Ready to find out if you're on the best deal available? Head over to TrueSaver's energy comparison tool right now and let Terry help you find a cheaper tariff in minutes. It's free, it's quick, and it could be the best 15 minutes you spend this month. 🐢💚
