With just three weeks until autumn, now is the perfect time for a winter energy check. Spending a few minutes reviewing your energy account now could help you avoid surprises when your heating starts going back on.

From checking your tariff to making sure your direct debit is still appropriate, these simple tasks can help you stay in control of your energy costs throughout the winter months.

Why carry out a winter energy check?

As the weather becomes colder, most households naturally use more energy to heat their homes and provide hot water.

Completing a winter energy check before temperatures drop can help you:

• Understand how much energy you’re using.
• Make sure you’re on the most suitable tariff.
• Avoid unexpected bills.
• Check whether your monthly payments are accurate.
• Find out if you’re eligible for grants or financial support.

A little preparation now can give you greater confidence heading into winter.

1. Submit a meter reading

Submitting an up-to-date meter reading ensures you’re only paying for the energy you’ve actually used.

If you don’t regularly provide readings, your supplier may estimate your usage. While estimates can sometimes be accurate, they don’t always reflect your actual consumption.

Providing a meter reading before autumn gives both you and your supplier a clear starting point for the months ahead.

2. Review your energy tariff

Energy prices and tariffs can change over time, so it’s worth checking whether your current tariff still meets your needs.

Take a few minutes to:

• Review your latest energy statement.
• Check when your current tariff ends.
• Understand whether you’re on a fixed or variable tariff.
• Contact your supplier if you’re unsure about your options.

Knowing how your tariff works can help you make informed decisions before winter arrives.

3. Check your direct debit

If you pay for your energy by direct debit, it’s worth checking that your monthly payments still reflect your likely energy use.

Sometimes direct debits are adjusted automatically, while in other cases they remain unchanged for long periods. Reviewing your account now can help you understand whether you’re building up credit, falling into debt or paying an amount that feels right for your circumstances.

If something doesn’t look right, contact your supplier to discuss your account.

4. Look into grants and support

Many people don’t realise there may be grants, funding or support schemes available to help improve their home’s energy efficiency or assist with energy costs.

Eligibility changes over time, so it’s worth checking what support is currently available.

Whether you’re considering insulation, heating improvements or simply looking for advice on reducing your bills, there may be options that could help. Visit Home Energy Scotland or contact Sofi@arranecosavvy.org.uk for more help.

Don’t wait until winter arrives

When the weather turns colder, energy bills often become a much bigger focus. Completing a winter energy check now gives you time to understand your options and make any changes before you’re relying on your heating every day.

This week, why not spend just 20 minutes to:

• Submit a meter reading.
• Review your energy tariff.
• Check your direct debit.
• Explore grants and support that may be available.

These small checks can help you feel more prepared for the months ahead.

Need impartial energy advice?

If you’d like support understanding your energy bills, reviewing your tariff or finding out about grants and funding, Arran Eco Savvy offers free, impartial energy advice for households across Arran.

Our Energy Team can help you make sense of your energy use, explain your options and signpost you towards relevant support, without recommending one supplier or product over another.

📧 Email: Sofi@arranecosavvy.org.uk to book a free one-to-one energy advice appointment.

Keep following our Countdown to Autumn

Every week we’re sharing another practical tip to help you prepare your home before the colder weather arrives.

So far we’ve covered:

• Stopping heat escaping through draught proofing.
• Getting your heating system ready.
• Checking your loft insulation.
• Saving energy through simple hot water habits.
• Completing a winter energy check.

Next week, we’ll look at simple ways to prepare your home for the darker days ahead, including switching to LED bulbs, checking torches and reducing standby power.