Small changes can save money

In the current economic climate when more and more households are feeling their income squeezed, the recent rises in energy bills have been more than a little unwelcome.

Food and fuel inflation has had the biggest impact on Brits following the financial crisis and British Gas has increased gas and electricity prices by 18 and 16 per cent respectively.

But there are things those looking for the best loan interest rates can do to reduce their outgoings on energy bills.

Turning down heating and turning off air conditioning are simple ways to significantly reduce the cost of bills, while adequate insulation will avoid energy being wasted.

Fridges, washing machines and dishwashers are all more energy efficient when fully loaded, while conversely consumers are advised to only use as much water as they need when boiling the kettle.

"I'm pushing the big six suppliers to help their customers overhaul their draughty homes and understand the best tariffs on offer, and I'm backing new entrants to bring more competition to the market," energy minister Chris Huhne recently said. 

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2011-07-19 12:55:31 © Moneyextra.com