Article updated April 2024
Energy price cap
What's changed?
For the period of 1 April to 30 June 2024, the Ofgem energy price cap will be set at £1,690 for a typical household per year.
The energy price cap is the maximum amount energy suppliers can charge you for each unit of energy if you're on a standard variable tariff.
It doesn’t mean your bill has been capped regardless of how much gas and electricity you use. If you use more than a typical household paying £1,690 a year, your bills will be higher.
See what you could do to reduce the energy you use and what financial help may be available.
1. Learn more about your energy bill
A typical household gas or electricity bill can be confusing. Taking time to understand them better could help you to check you're not paying more than you should be. You could also try USwitch's handy tool to check your current tariff and get more tips.
2. Adjust your thermostat by 1 degree
Using your thermostat as an on/off switch or pressing boost too often can mean more gas is wasted. Ideally set your thermostat between 18-21°c, better still, turn it down by just 1 degree and it could help lower your energy bill (Source: Energy Saving Trust, 2023).
3. See what financial support is available
You might be eligible for help with your energy bills or making your home more energy efficient. It's worth doing some research to see what help might be available to you.
Save energy, room by room
Room by room, see what you could do to reduce your energy usage.
Adjust your boiler’s flow temperature
Your boiler’s flow setting controls the temperature water is when it leaves your boiler. Its default setting is usually too high, it's a bit like putting your foot flat to the floor when driving. Try setting your boiler’s flow temperature between 55 and 60 degrees. Your home will feel just as warm, but it could cut your energy bills (source: Octopus Energy, 2022).
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