How Are You Preparing For Autumn/winter Energy?

Updated: 17.4.25

Winter is coming.

No, we're not referring to a popular TV show; we're talking about the season when energy bills spike, home comfort takes centre stage, and preparing for the cold becomes more important than ever.

Are you ready?

This updated 2025 guide provides practical, up-to-date solutions for homeowners, renters, and anyone looking to save money and energy during the colder seasons.

From insulation upgrades to smarter cooking and heating habits, you’ll find timely advice to help you prepare and stay comfortable.

Why Preparing for Autumn and Winter Energy is Vital

You can't control the weather, but you can control how you respond to it. Smart preparation saves money, improves comfort, and benefits the environment.

The earlier you plan, the greater your reward: lower bills and a cosier home all season long.

Insulation and Heating

Home Insulation remains one of the most effective ways to retain heat. Cavity wall, loft, and floor insulation can still reduce heat loss significantly and are supported by various UK government grant schemes as of 2025.

Hot Water Tank Jackets are still inexpensive and effective. Current market prices average £22–£30, offering payback in under a year through energy savings.

Boiler Servicing: Annual service costs are now around £90–£130, and regular check-ups can prevent expensive breakdowns and improve efficiency.

Appliance Energy Use & Cost-Saving Habits

• Energy Star-rated appliances are increasingly standard in UK retailers in 2025. Look for the A+++ rating for best efficiency.
• Smart Plugs are now more affordable (starting from £12) and can schedule and monitor appliance use in real-time.
• Induction hobs now account for over 60% of new cookers sold and are highly efficient, especially for frequent home cooks.

Turn your hot water thermostat down to 50°C and central heating to 18–19°C for optimal comfort and savings.

Heating the Person, Not the Room

Invest in wearable warmth: thermal socks, heated blankets (£20–£40), and microwavable heat packs.

Low-wattage infrared heaters (now as low as £60) offer targeted warmth while consuming less electricity than traditional fan heaters.

Draught-Proofing and Radiator Efficiency

DIY draught-proofing kits now cost from £8–£15 and seal gaps in windows and doors effectively.

Bleeding radiators improves efficiency—no changes here except an increased focus on encouraging this task at least twice per heating season.

Updated Energy Costs & Meal Planning

As of April 2025, the Ofgem energy price cap has decreased slightly, but costs remain high compared to 2020 figures. Average UK household dual-fuel bills still hover around £1,650–£1,800 annually.

Meal Planning remains a top strategy. Families report saving £20–£35 weekly by planning around discounts and avoiding impulse buys.

Freezer-friendly meals, store-brand swaps, and batch cooking can cut energy and food costs together.

Seasonal Ingredients

Farmers markets are thriving, and more apps now list what's in-season and local (e.g. Too Good To Go, Olio). Seasonal cooking is not only healthier and cheaper but also environmentally friendlier.

Gas Demand Reduction

Smart thermostats (e.g. Hive, Nest) have dropped in price—now from £99—and remain a great way to control heating costs remotely.

Regular servicing and daily habits like 10-minute window airing are still top recommendations to keep energy use in check.

Debt and Support Schemes – 2025 Update

The Energy Bills Support Scheme from 2024 has now concluded. However, in 2025, qualifying low-income households may receive targeted help through the Warm Home Discount (£150), Winter Fuel Payments (up to £600), and Cold Weather Payments (where applicable).

Comfort & Atmosphere – 2025 Styling Trends

Layered lighting and soft, natural fabrics remain key. In 2025, warm neutrals, eco-friendly candles, and upcycled furniture are trending. Smart bulbs allow you to shift lighting temperature with ease.

In Summary

Whether you're managing a home or flat, preparing for the colder seasons means planning smarter—not just spending more.

By combining modern tech, classic know-how, and cost-conscious habits, you can stay warm, reduce your bills, and take control of your energy use this winter.