This is also reflected in recent search trends with "water bill increase" searches in the UK surging by 520% in the last quarter – from January to March – and "household expenses" searches climbing by 32% [3].
Financial experts at Norton Finance are providing actionable tips to help consumers navigate these challenging times and potentially save over £500 annually.
"Taking proactive steps now will be crucial for people looking to pass by the challenges of 'awful April', says Paul Stringer, Director at Norton Finance. "There are a few steps tips to help households to lower the impact of rising costs and maintain financial stability."
Here's how to survive an "awful April" and save more than £500 per year:
Implement smart water-saving strategies: "With water bill searches skyrocketing, it's clear people are concerned. The average water bill will increase by £123, with some facing a £225 hike [4]. To combat this, be mindful of the length of your showers. Even reducing shower time by a few minutes can save a household of four between £43 and £79 annually [5]."
"Fix leaky taps and toilets immediately. A dripping tap can waste liters of water daily. Use water-efficient appliances and consider installing a water butt for garden use."
Be energy efficient: "With a 6.4% rise in the energy price cap [6], energy efficiency is crucial. Switch to LED light bulbs, unplug electronics when not in use, and consider a smart thermostat to optimize heating.
“Companies that produce smart thermostats, claim that their products can save up to 28% on heating energy [7]. This could translate to a potential saving of up to £236 per year [8], making it a substantial long-term saving."
Don’t forget the TV licence and other small increases: "While the TV licence has increased [9], along with broadband prices, these smaller increases, combined with the larger bill increases, all add to the pressure.
“It is important to remember that all expenses need to be considered when budgeting. For example, regularly review subscriptions and cancel any unnecessary ones. Remember that cancelling one lifestyle app (like Noom, etc.) can save you at least £200 a year [10]."
For more information and tips about how to manage your finances visit: www.nortonfinance.co.uk
ENDS
Notes to editor
Full breakdown on potential savings number:
1. Water. By reducing shower time by 2 minutes per person, a family of four saves 2920 minutes annually, equivalent to 35.04 cubic meters of water. Assuming a rough cost of £1.23 and £2.25 per cubic meter based on bill increases, this results in an estimated annual saving of £43.10/£78.84.
2. Energy. Based on an estimated average UK annual gas (heating) bill of £844.28, and a potential 28% reduction in heating energy consumption from smart thermostats, the potential annual saving is £236.40 (£844.28 x 0.28 = £236.40).
3. Subscriptions. £200 based on the source.
4. Sum of all potential savings is £78.84 (taking the highest estimate from water bills savings) + £236.40 + £200 = £515.24.
About Norton Finance
Norton Finance Group Ltd is a family owned, independent finance broker based in Rotherham, United Kingdom. Founded in 1974, Norton Finance has been an alternative to high street lenders for over 50 years. Awarded a Gold Trusted Service Award in 2019, they provide secured loans and re-mortgages tailored to each individual, whatever their circumstance.
Norton Finance is a member of a number of official industry bodies, including the Association of Mortgage Intermediaries (AMI), the Association of Finance Brokers (AFB) and is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).
[1] https://www.ofgem.gov.uk/news/changes-energy-price-cap-between-1-april-and-30-june-2025
[2] https://www.thesun.co.uk/money/33894084/bill-rises-awful-april-check-combat/
[3] Glimpse data sourced on the 18th of March
[4] https://moneyweek.com/personal-finance/water-bills-to-rise-england
[5] By reducing shower time by 2 minutes per person, a family of four saves 2920 minutes annually, equivalent to 35.04 cubic meters of water. Assuming a rough cost of £1.23 and £2.25 per cubic meter based on bill increases, this results in an estimated annual saving of £43.10/£78.84.
[6] https://moneyweek.com/personal-finance/water-bills-to-rise-england
[7] https://www.tado.com/en/about/fraunhofer-study
[8] Based on an estimated average UK annual gas (heating) bill of £844.28, and a potential 28% reduction in heating energy consumption from smart thermostats, the potential annual saving is £236.40 (£844.28 x 0.28 = £236.40).
[9] https://moneyweek.com/economy/uk-economy/key-money-dates-next-year
[10] https://www.thetimes.com/money-mentor/consumer-rights/how-to-cancel-subscriptions-and-save-a-fortune