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Q.Is switching easy?
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A.
Yes it is! Over half of all customers have now
switched suppliers and far fewer problems and complaints are
reported about the process than in the past.
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Q.What if I want to stay with the same supplier?
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A.
If you don’t want to switch suppliers it is
always worthwhile contacting your current supplier to see if they
can give you a get a better deal or put you onto a cheaper
tariff.
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Q.I’m struggling to pay my energy bills
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A.
If you are struggling to pay your bills the first thing you
should do is talk to your energy supplier.
Most energy suppliers will offer help to customers who are on a
low income. If you qualify for help they will put you on their
‘social tariff’ which means you will pay less for your energy.
Some of the main utility companies have
trust funds which are administered by a company called Charis. You
maybe eligible for help with your energy debts and even some other
household debts. You can obtain an application form by
calling 01733 421060 or visit your local
Citizens' Advice Bureau where they will help you complete a
form.
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Q.Where can I find help and advice?
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A.
The Home Heat Helpline on 0800 33 66 99 is a
free national helpline which offers advice on cheaper payment
schemes and grants for insulating your home.
If you are in debt or struggling to pay your
bills contact the Citizens Advice Bureau by accessing their
online advice guide,
or telephoning your
local bureau.
For practical advice on energy issues ring
Consumer Direct on 08454 04 05 06.
You can also find general information on
energy efficiency by ringing the Energy Saving Trust on
0800 512 012.
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Q.How can I save money on my water bill?
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A.
You can consider having a water meter fitted.
This means you will only pay for the water you use and not a
rateable amount. You can control the amount of water you use which
is not only good for the environment but also could be good
for your pocket.
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Q.Is it cheaper for everyone to change to a water meter?
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A.
No, how much you save depends on how many people are in your
household and how careful you are with your water.
Estimate your
household's water consumption
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Q.Does it cost anything to have a meter fitted?
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A.
If the meter can be fitted practically then it
will not cost you anything. Having one fitted could also bring you
significant savings.
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Q.Do I need to ask for permission to get a water meter fitted?
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A.
You do not need to ask for permission from us
to have a meter installed but you must tell us of your intention to
do so.
Unfortunately, residents who live in schemes
with communal heating systems, such as sheltered housing schemes,
are not allowed to have water meters.
If you are unable to have a water meter fitted
because it is not feasible (if you are on a shared supply for
instance) the water company should offer you the option of an
assessed charge.
Different water companies use different
methods to assess what you would pay. The charge could be based on
the type and size of property you live in, the average consumption
for the size of household you live in or your average personal
consumption. So, savings can still be made!
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Q.Can I have the meter removed if I find that having a meter is a more expensive way to pay?
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A.
You cannot have the meter removed but you can
change back to an unmetered bill if you do it within 12 months of
the meter being fitted.
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Q.How do I apply for a water meter?
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A.
You will find the details of how to contact your supplier on
your water bill.
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Q.Do you have any other general tips for reducing my bills?
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A.
Yes, consider the following
- Fit low energy light bulbs, although they cost a little more,
they will pay for themselves within six months or so and over the
course of their lifetime each bulb can save you up to £100.
- Purchase 'Energy Saving Recommended' domestic appliances when
replacements are needed. Energy saving products use less energy and
therefore are cheaper to run.
- If you have storage heaters ensure you adjust the input control
each night according to the next days weather forecast.
- A third of the food we buy in the UK ends up being thrown away,
and most of this could have been eaten. This costs a typical
household, with children, £610 per year. Planning your meals is one
of the most cost effective ways to cut wastage and food bills. For
practical help visit http://www.lovefoodhatewaste.com/.