How to Save on Energy Bills This Winter

The Netherlands has undergone significant increases in energy prices this year, and, for many, the thought of the upcoming costs during the winter time may be met with some panic. However, there are some tips and tricks that you can use to help save on at least some of these costs, and using several of these simultaneously could make a noticeable difference in your energy bills this season.

Off-Peak Hours & Turning Down the Heat 

A perhaps obvious tip is turning down your heating overnight, or when you are not at home. During the night-time, using extra duvets or hot water bottles can keep you warm and snug in bed and save on heating costs. Similarly, wait until you are back home before turning on your heating - or, if it's possible, you can set a timer for the heating so that it only starts warming up shortly before you are home. 

What you might not know, however, is that there are also electricity off-peak and peak hours in the Netherlands. This means that charging your electronics, and using electronic appliances, is cheaper during the night-time than it is during the day. The weekend and public holidays are also cheaper times to use electricity, so by planning around these off-peak hours you may be able to save yourself some hard-earned cash.

Checking for Draughts

Many houses and apartments, especially the older ones, have draughts that might enter through windows or doors due to poorer insulation. Applying caulk to broken door seals or window film to draughty windows might cost a little money upfront, but can save a lot of money in the long run. 

Close the Doors to Unused Rooms

If you are in an apartment or house with multiple rooms, it may be useful to think about when you will be frequently using a room or not. For instance, a guest room, the kitchen, or bathrooms that are not frequently used should have their doors closed to ensure that you don't lose any heat from the main rooms you need to stay warm. Doing this takes very little time and effort, but can ensure money saved in the future.

Use Portable Heaters

Portable heaters, or space heaters, are an excellent investment if you want to save some money but still need to heat up parts of your home. Take the portable heater with you into the room you will be spending time in, and you can plug it in near to you so that the area directly around you stays warm. Portable heaters are usually too small to heat large rooms, but they can be perfect for smaller spaces and are great ways to also monitor precisely when you have your heating on or off. Additionally, because they can be moved so easily, you can take them with you from room to room so that you can have them by you whether you are cooking in the kitchen, working at a desk, or cosying up on the sofa.

Lastly, and most importantly, take steps to keep your body warm first. Saving money on energy costs might be good for the budget, but taking care of yourself comes first and foremost. So if you are turning down your heating, for instance, make sure to bundle up and keep yourself cosy with blankets and jumpers this winter.