How To Lower Electricity Bills In Winter
Reference table
| Portable electric heaters | High impact | Use timers and heat one room only when appropriate |
|---|---|---|
| Laundry drying | High impact | Spin well and manage moisture |
| Lighting | Medium impact | Use LEDs |
| Standby | Low to medium | Target always-on clusters |
What to know
Winter bills rise because heating, lighting and indoor drying all increase together.
Practical guidance
Draught reduction can make heating changes more effective without changing supplier.
How to use this
Track kWh usage weekly so you can see whether changes are actually working.
FAQs
What should I do first?
Look at heating and drying clothes because those are often high-impact.
Are LEDs still worth it?
Yes if you still have halogen or incandescent bulbs.
Can smart meters reduce bills?
They do not save by themselves, but they reveal usage.
Should I avoid all electric heating?
Not always. Short targeted use can be practical.
Last reviewed 3 May 2026. Source: Ofgem energy price cap. Figures are estimates. Actual prices vary by region, supplier, tariff, payment method and meter type.