Energy myths expert warns you should ignore if you want to save money on bills this summer
09.06.2022 - 14:43
/ dailyrecord.co.uk
There can be no doubt that many households are already beginning to feel the extra financial squeeze brought about by rising energy bills and soaring inflation, with everyone slashing their monthly outgoing spending just to try and stay in the black.
Many people don’t realise that Ofgem’s energy price cap isn’t a maximum amount you will pay, it’s the maximum suppliers apply to standard daily charges, which means the only way to save money is to make the right choices in our homes and many people are following the wrong advice.
GoCompare energy expert, Gareth Kloet, has debunked some of the most common energy myths - which could actually cost you money rather than helping you make a saving.
Gareth explained that this one isn’t a total myth, because for some consumers, energy really is cheaper overnight. This is because suppliers sometimes charge you a cheaper rate in off-peak periods, which typically fall overnight - when the majority of people are sleeping and therefore using less energy.
However, he warned that not everyone benefits from these lower rates.
He said: “Firstly, you need a 2 rate meter or a smart meter, which is capable of recording when your energy use takes place.
“And crucially, only people who use a significant portion of their energy in off-peak times will see a cost benefit.”
Gareth said: “This is an energy myth - turn them off. The most energy efficient solution is to only heat what you need, when you need it.
“If you have your heating or your hot water on constantly, you will be paying to maintain a certain level of heat - which naturally will always be falling. So, make sure you are around to benefit from the heat you're paying to produce.”
Gareth explained that while it’s not true to say that a fan