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If you're worried about energy bills this winter, this could be a big help...

Now that we're well and truly into the season of dark evenings and cold temperatures, you're probably not alone if you've noticed your energy bills are on the up. When it comes to heating and electricity, we're all doing what we can to keep costs as low as possible, whether that's availing of some of the handy credits available or reducing usage wherever possible. To help you cut costs, the Government has introduced Reduce Your Use - a free information booklet packed with advice for saving on your energy bills this winter. The booklet includes details on the various Government supports households and businesses can avail of this winter - including the €600 Government Electricity Credit, Tax Relief options and Social Welfare. Plus, it covers the various services that can help you with managing any bills or debts this winter, as well as informing you on your consumer rights. Crucially, it also covers tips and tricks for saving on your energy bills, covering some simple steps you can take to reduce your heating and electricity costs. While it's important to keep using any energy or devices that help you stay warm and well this winter, there are some simple steps that might help you cut down on any wasted energy. You can find loads of handy advice in the Reduce Your Use booklet HERE, but here are some of the steps you can take immediately to reduce your bills...

1. Turn your thermostat down

A handy tip for saving on your heating bills is to reduce the temperature in your home. Turn the thermostat down to 19°C in living areas where safe and possible to do so and between 15–18°C in hallways and bedrooms. By lowering your home temperature by just one degree you can reduce the energy you use by 10% and save on your heating bill, making it a simple way to cut your costs during the colder months.

2. Use home appliances wisely

Making smart decisions with appliances could be key to saving on your electricity bills. Crucially, the oven is a big energy user, so using your microwave instead when possible could help shave some money off your bill. Other simple steps you can take include using a lower temperature for your washing machine or dishwasher and waiting until you have a full load before turning them on. Equally, using your dryer less often and instead hanging washing out to dry when possible will also help cut costs.

3. Don't waste hot water

Being mindful of how much hot water you're using could also make a big difference to your bills each month. For example, a regular shower uses only 20% of the energy it takes to heat the water for a full bath. However, pumped electric showers are still one of the biggest energy users in the home, meaning taking shorter showers could help you save a lot of energy and water.

4. Cut down on cooking times this Christmas

At Christmas time, all that extra cooking can lead to increased energy consumption, but the right prep work can go a long way towards reducing how much energy you're using. Be sure to take time to plan your menu, cooking preferences and times in advance, to minimise using multiple appliances. Where possible, it can be a good idea to cook multiple items at one time to get the most use from your oven. Match up your trays, pots and pans to the food that you are cooking, as large pans take more energy to heat. It can be a good idea to grill rather than bake too, as grills use less energy than the entire oven. Find more energy-saving tips right in the Reduce Your Use booklet HERE. The Government understands the challenge facing many this winter with the rising cost of energy bills, and has provided supports to help, alongside this information booklet, which gives advice on how to best stay warm and well this winter, and how to reduce energy use where safe and possible to do so.Visit gov.ie/ReduceYourUse Brought to you by DECC