Tips to reduce gas usage
Since heating accounts for a large portion of your gas bill, making a few small changes around the house can help you cut down on usage and save on costs.
Here are some practical heating tips to keep your home warm without overusing gas.
A simple way to cut down on gas is by turning down your thermostat. Lowering the temperature by just 1°C can save up to 10% on your heating bill, and most people find that they barely notice the difference. Every little bit counts and this quick adjustment could lead to significant savings over time.
Use a programmable thermostat
With a programmable thermostat, you can set your heating to turn on and off automatically based on your schedule. For instance, program it to turn off at night or while you’re at work and have it warm up again just before you get home.
This way, you’re not paying for heating when it’s not needed, and you’ll still walk into a cosy home.
The right insulation can help to keep warm air in and cold air out, so your heating system doesn’t have to work as hard. Start by insulating your loft and walls, as these are the major areas where heat escapes. You might also want to insulate floors and pipes for even better efficiency.
Though it’s an investment, proper insulation can reduce your gas bills significantly in the long term.
Drafty windows and doors are one of the biggest culprits when it comes to heat loss. Just think of all that cosy, warm air escaping from poorly fitted windows and gaps beneath doors!
Use weatherstripping, caulk, or draft excluders to seal any gaps that might be letting cold air in. Not only does this help keep your home warmer, but it also prevents your heating system from overworking to maintain a consistent temperature.
Once you’ve upgraded your windows to prevent hot air from escaping, you can go one step further by adding some heavy curtains as an extra precaution to stop heat loss, especially during the night when the temperature drops.
Keep the curtains open during the day to let sunlight warm up your rooms naturally, then close them in the evening to trap that warmth inside. Thick, lined curtains are best for blocking drafts, or you could even pick up some thermal curtains for maximum insulation.
Your boiler is the heart of heating your home, so it makes sense to show it some love. An annual boiler service ensures that your heating system continues to run efficiently and safely — especially in the run-up to the colder months when it’ll be used a lot more.
Over time, boilers can develop faults that make them work harder and use more gas to provide the same amount of heat. However, booking a professional service conducted by a Gas Safe-registered engineer can help spot and fix these issues, saving you money in the long run.
Regular servicing also extends the life of your boiler, so you won’t need to replace it as soon and can help prevent unexpected breakdowns in winter.
Find out more about how you can upgrade to an A-rated boiler here.
Give your radiators some TLC
Your boiler might be the powerhouse behind a warm home, but your radiators play a big role in delivering that toastiness to the rooms where you need it the most. Maximise your radiators’ effectiveness by bleeding them regularly to release trapped air, which can cause cold spots and hinder their efficiency.
Make sure they’re free from blockages and dust too, as this can obstruct heat flow. Keeping your radiators in good shape ensures they use gas efficiently and keep your home cosy.
Check out our guide on how to bleed a radiator if you need a refresher.
Cut down on your hot water use
Hot water usage can also be a big contributor to your gas bill, so finding ways to reduce it can lead to noticeable savings.
Opting for shorter showers and installing low-flow showerheads and faucet aerators can also help reduce hot water demand without sacrificing comfort.
Lower your water heater temperature
Most water heaters are set to around 60°C, but you can lower the temperature to 49°C without any noticeable impact on your daily routines. This simple adjustment means your boiler won’t need to work as hard to heat water, cutting down on gas usage and energy costs. It’s a quick, low-effort way to bring your bill down while still enjoying plenty of hot water for showers, cleaning, and more.
If you’re adjusting your water heater temperature, it’s always recommended to double-check the settings to make sure it’s set to the correct temperature. You can also contact a plumber to change it for you if you’re unsure how to.
Upgrade to a smart meter to monitor your gas usage
A smart meter lets you track your gas usage in real-time, helping you understand which habits might be driving up your bill. By seeing how much energy you’re using daily, weekly, and monthly, you can identify areas where you can make changes.
Most energy providers offer free smart meter installation, and with a better handle on your consumption, you’re in a stronger position to reduce waste and save money.
Upgrade to a smart meter with UW today.
Consider energy-efficient appliances
Older gas appliances can use more energy than newer, energy-efficient models. If you can, consider upgrading your boiler, water heater, or even your gas stove to an energy-efficient version.
Look for appliances with a good energy rating, as they’re designed to run more economically, using less gas to deliver the same results. Though there’s a substantial upfront cost, replacing older appliances can lead to significant savings in the long run by reducing your gas usage.
For more energy-saving tips around the home, click here.