How can we stop the gas and electric bills from becoming astronomical

[Sarah_Mencap]

I have been emailed by someone who wants some advice about how to help their grandson with gas and electric bills.

"My Grandson who is 21 will shortly be moving into his own flat....However, he has absolutely no idea of money budgeting and to get him to keep the heating on timed is an absolute nightmare. Do you know of some gadget/device we can install to stop the gas and electric bills from becoming astronomical? "

Thanks

Sarah

[Charlie2750 Community friend]

Hi Sarah

If he is moving into his own flat there is the option of getting a prepay meter installed.I havent had these for ages but you either put money directly into the meter and the gas and electric works until there is no money left.My mum had these years ago and I had to run down to my gran to get a shilling when the lights went out!! A smart meter will show what he is spending daily or weekly if you have a display but these are fitted by the gas and electric people.One smart meter also sends reading to the company which avoids a meter reader having to gain access. Also look at the best value fixed rate tarrif and dual fuel options.

The actual utility suppliers may have some ideas.

[49Twister in reply to Charlie2750]

I would like to know also if there is anything out there. My son lives in supported living with another guy and a staff member at all times. When he first moved in the guys would come home for a weekend the staff member would lock the house and leave the heating on !!!! Even now they are very inconsiderate regarding heating etc and I can only presume it’s because they aren’t paying the bills!!!

[Charlie2750 Community friend in reply to 49Twister]

Hi 49 Twister I’m sure you know that the heating can be programmed for set times for during the week and weekends and now I gather you can remotely turn the heating on or off with something called Hive. I know nothing about the hive but have seen it advertised. It’s ashame that I can’t remotely dry the cat when he comes home wet after midnight and jumps on the bed🙂 Good luck

[Sarah_Mencap]

Thanks for you your replies to this post.

I have also found a few useful links:

> citizensadvice.org.uk/debt-... - please note this only covers England, but there are pages for the other regions too.

> citizensadvice.org.uk/consu... - this is all about getting extra help from your supplier and is called a priority services register. You will know to know which supplier you use. Again this link refers to England only.

> A smart meter may also help. Here is a little more about them - citizensadvice.org.uk/consu...

I suspect it would be a good idea to try to talk to the supplier and see how they can help.

Best wishes

Sarah