Let’s face it—energy bills in the UK have become a real concern for most homeowners, and summer is no exception. While we might not have Mediterranean heatwaves every day, the warmer months still put extra pressure on our homes and wallets. So, what can you do to keep your energy costs in check without sacrificing comfort?
This guide covers simple yet effective ways to reduce your home’s energy usage during the summer months—without needing to overhaul your entire lifestyle. Whether you’re dealing with a stuffy bedroom or just trying to lower your monthly bills, these practical steps can make a real difference.
Why Do Energy Bills Go Up in Summer?
When people think of high energy bills, they usually think of winter. But summer comes with its own set of challenges. Even in the UK, where summers are generally milder than in other countries, homes can heat up quickly, especially if they’re not well-ventilated or insulated.
Here’s what contributes to higher bills in summer:
- Electric fans running all day—and often all night
- Fridges and freezers working overtime in the heat
- Hot water usage increasing after outdoor activities
- Poor insulation letting cool air escape too easily
1. Install a Smart Thermostat
One of the smartest upgrades for any home is, quite literally, a smart thermostat. It helps manage heating and hot water more efficiently, and many of them can be controlled via your smartphone—even when you’re away.
In a British summer, you might not be cranking the heat, but a smart thermostat can still help you:
- Reduce unnecessary hot water usage
- Set timers for fan-only systems
- Avoid heating during cooler evenings unnecessarily
➡️ For example, the Hive Active Heating system is popular across the UK and can cut your energy usage significantly.
According to the Energy Saving Trust, homeowners can save up to £130 per year by using smart controls.
2. Make the Most of Natural Airflow
There’s an art to cooling your home naturally—and it starts with knowing when to open and close your windows.
Here’s a trick that works wonders in the UK climate:
- Open your windows early in the morning and again late in the evening
- Keep them shut during the hottest part of the day (usually midday to 4pm)
- Close curtains or blinds to block direct sunlight, especially on south-facing windows
Creating a cross-breeze by opening windows on opposite sides of your house can also keep the air circulating without relying on fans.
3. Upgrade to More Efficient Appliances
If your kitchen appliances are more than 10 years old, they could be silently draining your energy and money. Older models tend to use significantly more electricity than newer, energy-efficient ones.
✅ Swapping out a D-rated fridge for an A+++ model could save you around £320 over the appliance’s lifetime, according to Which?.
Look out for the energy rating labels when buying new appliances, and go for ones that score highly in both electricity and water efficiency.
4. Don’t Ignore Draughts—Even in Summer
It might sound odd to talk about draught-proofing in the middle of June, but gaps around doors and windows don’t just cause issues in winter.
Here’s why it matters:
- In summer, cool indoor air can escape through the same cracks
- On chillier nights, you might be tempted to turn the heating back on
- Sealing those gaps helps maintain a stable indoor temperature all year round
Use draught excluders, silicone sealant, and brush strips to keep your home sealed up tight.
5. Review Your Energy Tariff
A lot of homeowners don’t realise they’re sitting on a standard variable tariff, which is often the most expensive option. Summer is a great time to shop around for a better deal, especially since your energy use might be a bit lower.
Here’s how to get started:
- Use comparison websites like uSwitch, Compare the Market, or MoneySuperMarket
- Look for fixed-rate tariffs to lock in a predictable price
- Consider a green energy provider—many now offer competitive rates with added benefits
Even a small reduction in your unit rate can add up over the year.
6. Swap Bulbs, Add Motion Sensors
Lighting might not be the first thing you think of in summer, but many homes still waste energy with outdated bulbs or unnecessary lighting in hallways and bathrooms.
Switch to LED bulbs, which use up to 90% less energy and last far longer than halogen bulbs. You can also install motion sensors in common areas so lights only turn on when needed.
These small changes can make a noticeable dent in your energy use over time.
7. Let Your Garden Help You Save
Your garden or outdoor space can actually play a role in reducing your energy bills—no matter how small it is.
- Plant shade trees or tall shrubs near sun-exposed windows
- Use solar-powered garden lights instead of mains electricity
- Dry your clothes outside instead of using a tumble dryer
The more you rely on natural light and fresh air, the less strain you put on your home’s energy systems.
8. Think Long-Term: Install Solar Panels
For those looking at long-term savings and energy independence, solar panels are becoming a more attractive option in the UK.
They’re not cheap upfront, but over time, they can pay off:
- Generate your own electricity during long summer days
- Reduce reliance on the grid
- Sell excess energy back through the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG)
💡 According to Ofgem, households with solar panels can save between £300 and £500 per year depending on usage and system size.
My Take: You Don’t Need a Complete Overhaul
As someone who’s tried to reduce energy use gradually over the years, I can say this: It’s not about making one big change—it’s about making a bunch of small, thoughtful ones that add up. For me, switching to a smart thermostat and replacing all my old bulbs made the biggest difference, both in comfort and in cost.
Don’t feel pressured to go all-in overnight. Start with what’s easy and build from there.
Frequently Asked Questions
Not massively, but they do add up if left running all day and night. A standard 40-watt desk fan costs about 1p–2p per hour. That’s around £6–£10 per month if used daily for 8+ hours.
Absolutely. Summer is an ideal time to switch because your energy use may be lower, and some providers offer special seasonal rates. Use a comparison site to find a deal that fits your household needs.
Yes! Even without central air conditioning, smart thermostats manage heating and hot water more efficiently—helping you avoid unnecessary usage during summer evenings.
Final Thoughts
Cutting your energy bills in the UK this summer doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With a bit of planning and a few small upgrades, you can create a cooler, more efficient home and keep your monthly bills in check. And the best part? Many of these tips benefit you year-round—not just in summer.