Keep Warm This Winter
A little forethought now could save you both money and anxiety in the winter months ahead.
If you receive an appointment from Nationwide for a Gas Appliance Service please make sure you keep it, or contact them to arrange an alternative date as soon as possible. They will obviously be inundated with calls once the cold weather sets in, so it's important that you help them to keep to their schedules.Keep ahead of the game and fire up your heating system - either gas or electric - before you need it, to ensure that all is working well. That way there is still time should you need to report a repair. There are a number of steps you can take to stay warm and yet keep your energy bills down:
* Wear several thin layers of clothes rather than one thick one. Natural fibres or synthetic fleecy materials are best.
* Likewise, one or two extra light blankets on the bed will do the trick.
* Stay active - spread your chores throughout the day and alternate them with periods of rest.
* Eat well - ensure that you have at least one hot meal a day; sip warm drinks regularly; keep a flask of something hot by the bed for a night-time drink.
* It is more economical to keep the heating on constantly at a low temperature in very cold weather rather than run it at very high temperatures for short bursts throughout the day.
* Turning down the heating thermostat by 1º could cut your heating bills by up to 10%.
* Close curtains at dusk to stop heat escaping through the windows.
* Ensure doors and windows are properly closed and seal any gaps.
There are a number of schemes available to help with heating costs. Contact your local Citizens Advice Bureau or Age Concern on Freephone 0800 009 966 for details.
Home Heat also provides information to vulnerable customers on keeping warm and reducing energy costs that includes advice on payment methods, grants and benefits available. Telephone them on 0800 336 699. You could save money by changing your gas and/or electricity supplier so It's always worth comparing prices.
Energywatch, the independent gas and electricity consumer watchdog, provides free, impartial information to all energy consumers. They can supply you with price comparison material and a list of suppliers operating in your area. You can call them on 0845 906 0708 (local call rate).
If you are threatened with disconnection because you cannot pay your energy bills, contact your energy supplier straight away. You may be able to make arrangements to repay your arrears as an alternative to disconnection.
