Keeping Energy Bills under control…
I’d like some advice on keeping my energy bills down please.
I work in admin for a big corporation. We are working from home with
no idea when we’ll be back in the office. I’m freezing sitting here all day in front
of my computer! I’m worried if I turn the heating up my bills are going to go
through the roof.
Fortunately, there’s lots you can do to keep bills down.
Firstly, see if you can get a better deal by changing your energy supplier. However, as well as comparing prices, it’s a good idea to check the customer service record of a company before switching. Citizens Advice has a price comparison tool on our website, and our star rating assesses the customer service records of the 40 biggest companies.
There are also little, everyday things that can help, such as making sure televisions and other devices are switched off and not left on standby; washing clothes on a lower temperature; and only filling the kettle with the water you need.
You’re right in another way about bills going through the roof – and the walls. One
way of cutting costs in the long term is to invest in good insulation – or ask your
landlord to do so.
If your pay is close to the national minimum wage, the extra costs of working from home could be counted as a pay cut and bring you below the legal level. Talk to your manager or HR department, or your union rep if you have one.
Finally, your employer should pay for any costs connected to your health and safety – such as a suitable chair for work at a computer. It’s also worth taking a look at your employer’s expenses policy as you may be able to claim for a number of other things, such as printer ink or telephone line rental.
Free, confidential advice and help is available from South Lakes Citizens Advice on any aspect of debt, consumer problems, benefits, housing,
employment or any other problems.
South Lakes Citizens Advice is still delivering a service – Telephone and Digital Advice
How to access:
Call 015394 46464 – this is staffed from 9:30 – 2pm
Adviceline: 03444 111 444
email advice via our submission page on our website
www.southlakescab.org.uk/contactus
Help to Claim (Universal Support): 0800 144 8 444