Thursday, February 4, 2010
Category:
Home Improvements
According to moneysupermarket.com, bill payers in the UK will utilise approximately 40 percent of their annual energy consumption throughout these cold winter months.
It was found that a customer on a standard tariff, paying an average of £1,232 per annum via quarterly cash and cheque payments, could soon be faced with a significant bill to the tune of £493. However, the price comparison site points out that energy costs could be reduced by switching to the best available online deal and by making monthly direct debit payments. In fact, it was revealed that this move could result in a saving of £299 a year, which is equivalent to 24 percent off.
Utilities manager at moneysupermarket.com, Scott Byrom, commented: "Brits will be brought back down to earth with a bump this New Year when a huge energy bill lands on their doorstep. Many bill payers will have cranked up the heating in their homes during the "Deep Freeze" - the National Grid reports demand for gas in the UK has hit record levels as people keep their homes warm - and will soon be hit with unexpectedly high energy bills, an expensive way to top off this costly period.
"I advise any customers languishing on their provider's standard deal, whether worried about post-New Year bills or not, to swap to a monthly direct debit scheme and manage their account online - a standard QCC customer could save an average £299 a year - an easy move to make and something cash strapped Brits should seriously think about."
The results of a recent survey of moneysupermarket.com users uncovered that 41 percent are installing energy efficiency measures in their properties. Furthermore, 39 percent would reportedly improve the energy efficiency of their property if they had financial assistance. Nevertheless, 19 percent admitted that they are not able to make their property more energy efficient – either due to a lack of money or a lack of interest in doing so.
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Homeowners who would like to make their property more energy efficient, but do not have the funds required, could consider taking out a secured loan to facilitate any work required. One of many finance options available, a secured loan for
home improvements could allow the borrower to embark upon an array of projects such as replacing any draughty doors or windows for heat retention. Furthermore, an inefficient boiler could also be replaced in a bid to keep energy costs down. Some homeowners may even decide to invest in solar panels, which would enable them to utilise the sun’s renewable energy.
