Paying costly energy and water bills can be a struggle, so it’s really important you know how to get the best out of your home. You need to know how to save energy and water but still live comfortably, find the energy company and tariff that is best for you and get support with paying bills when you need it.
It is really important that your home is energy and water efficient, you know how to get the best out of your heating system and don't waste energy or water in the home - it will save you money!
To help, we have produced a detailed energy and water information pack full of up-to-date guidance and money saving advice including energy saving, grants and help with your bills, and what to do if you get into debt.
For more detailed advice on energy saving including information on changing your energy supplier, dealing with cold calling from energy companies and making a complaint, visit the consumer direct website.
Rising fuel bills - get a better deal from your energy company
Electric and gas prices are on the increase. If you are receiving income related benefits, are disabled or are aged over 60 years and get pension credits you might be able to get a better deal from your energy company. Read our energy and water advice leaflet or contact your energy provider and ask them what they can do for you.
Switching to a new energy company
In partnership with other housing associations as part of Advantage South West (ASW), we have joined forces with the energy management company Energlinx to set up an online and telephone energy switching service. For every successful switch residents' make a payment is made to ASW which will be used to provide energy training for staff and residents. If you have never changed your energy provider you could save up to £200 per year - but remember to check whether your existing supplier could offer you a better deal, and that you are not tied into a contract with a penalty payment if you leave before the end date. To contact the energy switching service telephone 0800 310 2183 or click here to visit the website.
Health and heating For advice on staying healthy and warm click here to visit the NHS website.
Cold weather payments
If you are aged over 60 years and receive a winter fuel payment or you are on job seekers allowance, income support or income related employment and support allowance you should automatically receive a cold weather payment of £25 for every 7 day period of very cold weather from 1t November to 31 March. If you think you are eligible but have not received a payment into your bank account visit www.direct.gov.uk and go to the money, tax and benefits page to find out more, complete an application form or talk with your local benefit advisor.
Saving water and getting help with your water bills
South West Water offer help to low income households with children and those that need to use more water due to medical conditions through their water sure tariff. They can provide benefit advice and help to those who have built up debts and are struggling to pay their water bill through their water care scheme. If you cannot have a meter fitted in your home you can get an assessed charge that could save you as much as £200. To find out more download our energy and water advice leaflet or visit the South West Water website.
Economy 10
Economy 10 is similiar to Economy 7 but offers 10 instead of 7 hours of off peak lower cost energy. If you have an air source heat pump and use hot water during the day you might find that changing from standard electric to Economy 10 will save you money. To find out more download the Economy 10 fact sheet.
