When John was referred through the NGN Warm Homes Network scheme, he wasn’t expecting much to change.
He was already careful. Heating was used when needed, nothing excessive, and day to day spending was managed closely. But the bills still didn’t feel right. They were higher than expected, and there wasn’t a clear reason why.
Once we started talking it through, it became clear this wasn’t one big issue. It was lots of small things, all adding up quietly in the background.
We started by understanding how John was actually living in his home.
His heating wasn’t being overused, but it also wasn’t working as efficiently as it could. By adjusting timers and controls, and improving how radiators were being used, we made the heat go further. The home stayed comfortable, but with less waste.
From there, we looked at everyday habits. Things like leaving appliances on standby, washing at higher temperatures, and relying on the tumble dryer were all contributing more than expected. None of them felt like a problem on their own, but together they were increasing costs.
We worked through practical changes that fit into his routine. Washing at 30°C, reducing tumble dryer use, switching appliances off fully, lowering the thermostat slightly, and being more mindful with water and kettle use.
We also introduced simple improvements in the home itself. Draught proofing and reflective radiator panels helped keep heat where it was needed, rather than losing it through walls and gaps.
Alongside this, a full income check identified an additional £252 per year in financial support.
When these changes are combined, the impact builds quickly. The behaviour changes alone account for around £1,199 in savings, with a further £110 coming from heating and energy efficiency improvements. Together with the additional income identified, this brings the total estimated saving to £1,561 per year, while also reducing carbon emissions by 1.18 tonnes of CO2 annually.
To make these changes easier to put into practice, John received a Heat the Person pack.
This gave him practical ways to stay warm without relying fully on heating. A thermal blanket and mini hot water bottle meant he could keep warm in the evenings without needing to turn the heating up, helping reduce reliance on central heating.
The radiator key and reflective panels helped improve how his heating system worked, making sure heat was being used efficiently and kept within the room.
Energy saving light bulbs reduced electricity use straight away, while a thermal mug helped cut down on repeated kettle use. A plug tester was also included, giving him a simple way to check appliances and avoid unnecessary energy use.
Each item supported the advice he’d been given, turning it into something he could actually use day to day.
We also made sure he had access to wider support. Referrals were made to Citizens Advice, the National Support Network and an IE Hub service, connecting him to additional financial and wellbeing support where needed.
If you’re in a similar position and feel like you’re doing everything you can but still struggling with energy costs, you’re not alone. Speak to YES Energy Solutions and we’ll help you find practical ways to make your home more affordable to run.
“I didn’t realise how much the small things were adding up”
Name has been changed to protect privacy
