Energy experts urge pre-winter checks to reduce utility bills

Experts are advising homeowners and business owners in the UK to perform an ‘energy MOT’ before winter to reduce energy wastage and lower utility bills. Madeleine Porter of Utility Bidder suggests that addressing energy waste while the weather is still mild allows for better habit-building and system improvements before peak demand periods.

Key recommendations include checking fridge and freezer thermostats to ensure they are not set lower than necessary, and adjusting hot water cylinder timers to prevent heating water unnecessarily. Additionally, British Gas suggests using a 30°C setting for laundry to potentially reduce energy usage by 40%. Homeowners are also cautioned not to block radiators with furniture, curtains, or drying clothes, as this forces heating systems to work harder.