4 in 5 don’t ask heating professionals for advice on cutting energy bills

Nine in ten Brits say they are concerned about rising energy costs, a new survey of 1,000 homeowners has found. The survey, carried out by Resideo, also found that more than a one-quarter (28 per cent) have turned their central heating off to reduce energy bills, but just 13 per cent have installed a heating control.

The level of concern differed between age groups, with 58 per cent of 34-44 year-olds and 65 per cent of 45-54 year-olds saying they are very concerned. Younger people are the most worried, with 76 per cent of 18–24 year-olds saying they are concerned by rising costs.

Some 40 per cent say they would turn to their energy provider for advice on reducing their energy bills, while just under one-fifth would contact a heating professional. Those aged 18-24 are most likely to turn to a professional: almost one-third say they would ask a heating installer for advice on cutting their energy bills.

The results highlight that many people are actively looking for ways to reduce their energy bills through heating controls such as thermostats. Almost 70 per cent of 25-34 year-olds would spend money on the latest heating controls if it meant they could save money in the long term.

Resideo’s Martin Wilson says: “This survey has confirmed that UK homeowners are increasingly concerned about their bills and are proactively looking for ways to reduce them. While homeowners are prepared to invest in thermostats to help mitigate their bills, they are much more likely to go to their energy provider for advice on reducing bills.

“However, professional heating engineers have the expertise and knowledge to also support homeowners looking to increase the efficiency of their home heating system and ultimately reduce energy bills.”