As the cost of living continues to rise, UK households are under more pressure than ever. Energy bills remain one of the biggest monthly expenses, and with winter approaching, many families worry about how they will manage.
But here’s the good news: new research has shown that by making just two simple changes, millions of households could cut their bills by up to £400 a year. This isn’t about complicated home renovations or expensive technology—it’s about small, effective actions that every household can consider.
In this article, we’ll break down exactly what these changes are, how they work, and who benefits most. If you’re in the UK and worried about energy bills, this could be the guide that makes a real difference.
What’s Happening With UK Energy Bills in 2025?
Energy bills have been at the forefront of the cost of living crisis since 2022. Even though prices have dropped slightly compared to record highs, the average annual household bill is still around £1,800–£2,000 per year in 2025, according to Ofgem.
That’s a significant portion of income for millions of families, particularly pensioners, low-income households, and those on Universal Credit.
Government schemes like the Energy Price Guarantee, the Warm Home Discount, and DWP’s cost of living payments have provided some relief. But long-term savings rely on households taking proactive steps to reduce usage.
And this is where two surprisingly simple changes can make a difference.
The First Change: Adjusting Your Boiler Settings
Research by energy experts has shown that turning down the flow temperature on your combi boiler could save households £200–£250 per year.
How It Works
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Most combi boilers are set to heat water to 70–80°C.
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But in most cases, a setting of around 60°C is more efficient without reducing comfort.
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This lowers the energy needed to heat your home and hot water.
Why It Matters
Boilers account for over half of the average household’s energy use. By making this small adjustment, you’re not changing how often you heat your home—you’re simply using energy more efficiently.
The Second Change: Switching to LED Lighting
The second change is as simple as replacing old bulbs. Switching all your household lighting to LED bulbs can save another £150–£180 per year.
Why LEDs Save Money
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An LED bulb uses around 80% less electricity than a traditional incandescent bulb.
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They also last far longer, meaning fewer replacements.
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The upfront cost is low—many supermarkets and DIY stores sell multi-packs for under £10.
Real-Life Example
A family using 20 lightbulbs around the home could see savings of around £180 per year just from switching to LEDs.
Combined Savings: Up to £400 a Year
When you put these two changes together, households could save up to £400 annually. That’s the equivalent of:
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A month’s rent in some areas of the UK.
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Nearly two months of groceries for an average family.
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Or enough to cover winter heating costs.
Who Benefits Most From These Changes?
These energy-saving adjustments can benefit every household, but they are particularly useful for:
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Pensioners living on fixed incomes.
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Low-income families struggling with rising bills.
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Private renters who may not be able to make larger home improvements.
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Homeowners looking for quick savings without investing thousands in insulation or solar panels.
Other Ways to Cut Energy Costs in 2025
While these two changes are the quickest wins, there are other low-cost steps households can take:
Smart Thermostats
Installing a smart thermostat can reduce heating bills by up to 10%, giving you greater control over your usage.
Draught-Proofing
Sealing gaps around doors and windows can save another £60–£100 per year.
Washing at Lower Temperatures
Switching from 60°C to 30°C washes can save around £30–£40 annually.
Turning Off “Vampire Devices”
Devices left on standby still use power. Turning them off could save households £50–£60 a year.
What Government Support Is Available in 2025?
Alongside household savings, UK families can still access a range of government schemes:
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Warm Home Discount: £150 off electricity bills for eligible pensioners and low-income households.
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Winter Fuel Payment: £100–£300 for pensioner households.
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Cold Weather Payment: £25 per week during freezing weather for certain benefit claimants.
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Cost of Living Payments: Extra support for people on Universal Credit, Pension Credit, and other benefits.
When combined with the £400 potential savings from the two simple changes, households could see their energy burden fall significantly.
Step-by-Step: How to Start Saving Today
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Check your boiler settings – Lower the flow temperature to around 60°C.
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Replace your bulbs – Switch every remaining halogen or incandescent bulb to LED.
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Track your bills – Monitor energy use month by month to see the difference.
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Look for discounts – Some councils and charities offer free LED bulbs and boiler checks.
Why Small Changes Add Up
It’s easy to assume that saving a few pounds here and there won’t make much difference. But when added together, these savings can transform a household budget.
By lowering your boiler flow temperature and switching to LEDs, you’re not just saving money—you’re reducing energy demand, which helps the UK transition to greener, more sustainable energy.
Final Thoughts
Energy bills will likely remain high in the years ahead, but households are not powerless. With two simple changes—adjusting boiler settings and switching to LED bulbs—UK families could cut up to £400 a year off their bills.
When combined with government support schemes, this offers real relief at a time when every pound counts.
If you haven’t already made these changes, now is the time to act. It’s quick, affordable, and could make all the difference this winter.