Worry over heating cost rises causing arguments

14/11/2011

A survey by MoneySupermarket.com found that one third of UK adults argue with their family about turning the heating on and for three quarters of those, the reason is because they are worried about the rising cost of energy this winter.

More than 26 million adults have revealed they would rather wear extra layers this winter than turn the heating on. This is a particular trait of those based in the South West, with 63 per cent of those questioned preferring to layer up rather than turn the heating on.

Scott Byrom, MoneySupermarket energy expert, said: “Arguing over whether to switch on the heating or not seems to be hot on the agenda for struggling bill payers. Unsurprisingly, many consumers are concerned about the high cost of energy, especially as the latest round of price hikes saw an extra 17.4 per cent added to the cost of gas and 10.8 per cent to the cost of electricity.

“The average annual standard bill now stands at a wallet-busting £1,287 and people are quite rightly scared – as we move into the winter months energy consumption is at its highest with bill payers using around 40 per cent of their annual usage during these months, this could see huge bills of around £514.80 land on doorsteps after the expensive Christmas and New Year period.”

He continued, “It’s worrying how many people are so concerned about affording their energy bills, but consumers can take action to combat the cost of fuel bills and ease the burden of a hefty bill hitting them in the New Year. Consumers need to make sure they are on the best energy deal for their usage and region. Finding the right tariff means bill payers could save on average £237 per year.”

Tags; Current UK Economy, Budgeting Advice, Housing Debt and Bills,

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