How to save money by keeping energy bills low this festive season

Ensure the next bi-monthly bill is not a new year’s kick up the kilowatts. Use seasonal savvy so power costs don't skyrocket, says Kya deLongchamps 

Christmas lights can be switched off overnight. No one is judging you. File picture

Yes, it’s all about bling, treats and getting what we deserve, but Christmas doesn’t have to blow up your power bill. Let’s ensure that the next bi-monthly bill is just perked, not a new year’s kick up the kilowatts. First of all, you may have started life with a smart meter this year, giving you some idea of your real-time power usage. 

With some suppliers, including SSE Airtricity and Yuno, you can even see your major appliances nibbling the supply via an app on your phone. This will cover the big spenders — electric ovens, tumble dryers, washing machines and the curly moustached villain of domestic villains under the wrong soapy fingers — the electric shower. So, refer to that typical baseline, and obviously expect a little chaos as the house fills, kids lose all restraint and adult drinks are topped.