44. Cost of Living Alone Hits Hard (Spring)

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  • Опубликовано: 6 сен 2024
  • I'm going into my fourth month living alone in Wales and look back over my bills for gas and electric of the past few months and how I've saved money reducing my bills.
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Комментарии • 302

  • @JennyGunston-uh5og
    @JennyGunston-uh5og 5 месяцев назад +134

    I’m with Octopus and I’m very happy. When I contacted them to let them know my husband had died and get the account changed to my name, they sent some flowers.

    • @gillidee3400
      @gillidee3400 5 месяцев назад +26

      Sorry for your loss. I do keep hearing good things about Octopus.

    • @joannehutley5740
      @joannehutley5740 5 месяцев назад +35

      That was very nice of them. You don't hear of many businesses making that kind of gesture. I'm sorry for your loss.

    • @user-vg6fs9qe8j
      @user-vg6fs9qe8j 5 месяцев назад +4

      terrible for me .... and smart meters. Wow, they will cut your gass ellectric off on pay as you go

    • @seanjamescameron
      @seanjamescameron  5 месяцев назад +16

      Was a very nice thing for them to do, you don't hear many companies doing that thesedays.

    • @carolineowen7846
      @carolineowen7846 5 месяцев назад

      ​@@user-vg6fs9qe8j I am surprised as a colleague went over to Octopus & was on prepaid meter, & didn't have a smart meter. They let her stay on the dials and let her go over to direct debit. That was last year (2023).

  • @Deecula
    @Deecula 5 месяцев назад +36

    All my bills reduced drastically, my sons moved out 😅

    • @neil-nx3ei
      @neil-nx3ei 5 месяцев назад +2

      Ha Ha
      My sympathy
      I know what you mean!!

  • @user-sr2qz7uw2t
    @user-sr2qz7uw2t 5 месяцев назад +70

    One thing we, in the USA, are advised to do with our electric appliances is to keep them unplugged when not in use. The appliances act like phantoms and draw elec when not in use unless they are unplugged. The electric light bulbs...check to see what kind of lights are not hot, and do not use as much electricity. They have long life and last a very long time. When you are in one of the stores, ask someone. Use only the water you need to heat for your tea instead of boiling water you don't need. We have used bubble wrap on our windows to keep the cold out. Check internet to see how. I tried it several years but quit. Wear thick socks around the house. If you bathe in a tub, leave water in tub till it cools to allow heat to go into the room. If you use your oven, cook more than one dish at a time to save oven costs. When you get done, leave oven door open to allow heat to go into your kitchen. You paid for this heat use it! Keep a wrap on your couch to cover your legs. I use a bed heater on my bed that is placed under the sheet. It provides heat to the body and especially the back, back of the legs and shoulders. Helps with arthritis and back and leg pain. It uses very minimal electricity. Hope these ideas give you something to think about. Your friend, Karen from Louisiana.

    • @user-sr2qz7uw2t
      @user-sr2qz7uw2t 5 месяцев назад +6

      The bed heater is like an electric blanket but it goes underneath the body instead over the body. That is why it is so nice because it helps with aches and pain. I bought them from Amazon.

    • @joannehutley5740
      @joannehutley5740 5 месяцев назад +7

      Good tips. Thank you for sharing.

    • @lilindil1250
      @lilindil1250 5 месяцев назад +17

      We have switches on our plugs here to close off the electricity front he appliances. So switching thw switch off does the same thing ☺️

    • @sharonjones3646
      @sharonjones3646 5 месяцев назад +6

      Yes I do that except for my fridge and freezer and pull plugs out of wall

    • @marshacashmore628
      @marshacashmore628 5 месяцев назад

      @@user-sr2qz7uw2t I've been using one of these on my bed for 50yrs and wouldn't be without it.

  • @angelajane1038
    @angelajane1038 5 месяцев назад +57

    Octopus Energy sent me a heated throw a couple of years ago. I never feel cold. Any aches and pains disappear. Thank you Octopus Energy, the best energy provider.

  • @twpsy634
    @twpsy634 4 месяца назад +5

    Highly recommend a heated throw. I 'm 73 and have lived alone for years.I have gas heating , but instead use one bar of a halogen heater . Further benefit is the lovely rosy glow which really lifts your spirits quite remarkably also. My cat adores it and is stretched on a pillow in front like a dead rabbit😂. They are cheap to buy also.
    I know they are a spot heater , but I find that a small room warms up quickly and enough for me even with my achey old bones.

  • @artyanne65
    @artyanne65 5 месяцев назад +32

    I’m with Octopus. I have them lights, I think they are brilliant. I think you may need to get someone to take a look at your kitchen roof Sean, you have TWO leeks in the kitchen now 😂😂😂

  • @outfromtheshadows
    @outfromtheshadows 5 месяцев назад +25

    “But what have I bought, cause I can’t remember.” Oh Sean, I hear you, I really do! 😂😂

    • @louisesiberry6289
      @louisesiberry6289 5 месяцев назад +7

      Oh my I describe receiving parcels I’ve ordered as being like Christmas. It’s a surprise when I open them. You are definitely not alone.

  • @JoeP1934
    @JoeP1934 5 месяцев назад +20

    I’m with octopus and I can’t fault them really, we’ve managed to fix our bill to 75 a month for both gas and electric 😊

  • @catsmother4556
    @catsmother4556 4 месяца назад +3

    My energy saving tips. Buy a thermos flask. Each time you boil the kettle to make your tea put the remaining hot water in the flask. Next time you need hot water its still hot in the flask so no need to boil the kettle. Even if its been a long time and the flask has cooled somewhat it will still be hotter than if it had been left to go cold in the kettal so will reboil faster.
    For the winter you may consider investing in an electric blanket. Not for the bed but to throw over yourself when sat about the house. Heat the person not the room. Or alternatively a good old fashioned hot water bottle and a throw over blanket.

  • @peter.7267
    @peter.7267 5 месяцев назад +30

    Hi Sean I live in the northeast of England and I find that the Majority of older people are down to earth honest folk 🤷🏼‍♂️
    I was born in Cardiff by the way …..😊

  • @yvonneb2327
    @yvonneb2327 5 месяцев назад +47

    Sean , it's usually any thing with an element in that makes your electric bill more expensive , like dryers stoves , heaters etc.. not so much the lights . In some places people put hot water from the kettle in a thermos flask . to avoid having to keep heating the kettle .

    • @margaretalice6343
      @margaretalice6343 5 месяцев назад +11

      My old dad was curious how much a kettle uses so he checked the meter when he switched it on. He was horrified to see the old fashioned meter going so fast. He got a thermos jug & boiled the kettle about 3 times a day instead of 10-15. (My parents were big tea drinkers. Thermos jug held its heat and saved them money)

    • @amandaneal1556
      @amandaneal1556 5 месяцев назад +5

      True. Anything with a motor or heater uses the most electric. Washing machines, tumble dryers, cookers etc.
      Lights don't use much

    • @yvonneb2327
      @yvonneb2327 5 месяцев назад +2

      @@margaretalice6343 I love your story of your Dad , In some places I have lived the electricity has been extremely expensive and not always on also you needed it to work a pump to get water as well . Cheers Yvonne

    • @rebekahTee-er3rz
      @rebekahTee-er3rz 5 месяцев назад +1

      When you get out the bath, can wash clothes in the bathwater. Rinse with cold. Saves using washer.

  • @SerenBard
    @SerenBard 5 месяцев назад +18

    For your lights I would use double sided sticky tape rather than glue. Love your chats and you live in a beautiful place 😀

  • @chantaldavies
    @chantaldavies 5 месяцев назад +34

    Sean we are not far from you over in the Dulais Valley, and a few years ago I bought thermal tops and leggings for myself and my children and honestly, we wear them day and night during the wintertime. When removed I really notice the cold! So I highly recommend the 24 hour wearing of thermals 👍

    • @MariaBlack-yq1gx
      @MariaBlack-yq1gx 5 месяцев назад +10

      Thermals are brilliant!!!

    • @Angel-002
      @Angel-002 5 месяцев назад +5

      Yes I wear thermals too. I told my friend to get some & she said "I'm not wearing long johns!!" 😂 I told her they are leggings & either t-shirt type tops or long sleeved tops & I wear thermal socks too. Makes a huge difference. I also bought 15tog duvets in the sale & they are so cosy when it's freezing outside & I have a throw on my settee I put over myself while watching tv or reading. I use my pressure cooker & air fryer to make meals as they are more energy efficient too.

    • @annetaylor5910
      @annetaylor5910 5 месяцев назад +4

      @@Angel-002Y es I also wear thermals saves a lot of money, they keep me warm throughout the winter, I start wearing them in October and don’t stop until beginning of May wouldn’t be without them.🥶

    • @chantaldavies
      @chantaldavies 5 месяцев назад

      @@churchofpos2279 I wear a hat in bed too!!!

    • @TheHermitage-en1go
      @TheHermitage-en1go 4 месяца назад +2

      Thermals fan here too. Wearing them right now😂

  • @nicola4789
    @nicola4789 5 месяцев назад +17

    Replace all your lights with LED lights...last forever and super economical. Also best heaters are the permanent oil-filled radiators. They are also economical. When they reach your comfortable zone, you set it there and it will come back on when it goes below what you had set it at. They also are noiseless. I saw a picture of the gardener Alys Fowler in her writing room and she has one. She also lives in Wales.

  • @judyholdsworth7096
    @judyholdsworth7096 5 месяцев назад +18

    I use cheap solar garden lights in my kitchen, bathroom, a bedroom and my garden shed windows. As long as the little panel gets some light during the day they are great. You can have them come on when the sensor thinks it’s dark enough or you can switch them off/on manually. Could be handy coming into spring/summer.

  • @susangoulding3159
    @susangoulding3159 5 месяцев назад +59

    My eyes went straight to the leek😂

  • @annsmith1922
    @annsmith1922 5 месяцев назад +23

    I’ve got a heated throw to put over me when I’m on the sofa. I have just had my heating on for a couple of hours during the mornings and a couple of hours on the afternoon. On the sofa with my throw of a night, watching some telly or reading is lovely and cosy👍I got mine from Lakeland, but lots of places sell them now. There is one draw back, I tend to nod off, I’m that warm and comfortable 🤦‍♀️😅😅😅🥰 ps ( with a cup of tea, of course!!!☕️🤣)

    • @joannehutley5740
      @joannehutley5740 5 месяцев назад +1

      I've wanted to try a heated throw but haven't got around to buying one. With the rising energy prices I'd rather use a throw than put the gas fire on in the evening while I watch TV.

    • @joannehutley5740
      @joannehutley5740 5 месяцев назад

      @@Buzzj4k that sounds like a good one.

    • @lynnhensley4326
      @lynnhensley4326 5 месяцев назад +1

      I bought one in the US for $25. I never used my gas logs or little heater at all this winter. Just threw over my legs when watching TV or reading. Our winter was mild, this year, no snow or ice.

    • @neil-nx3ei
      @neil-nx3ei 5 месяцев назад

      I bought my heated overblanket at Christmas from Argos , £60
      The best money I’ve ever spent.
      Beware though… on number 6 you do tend to nod off , they are so cosy!!!
      I couldn’t live without one now.
      I keep the heating off .
      Also .. I received a MEACO dehumidifier at Christmas as a gift off family
      Dear lord… I couldn’t live without it now. It’s fabulous for extracting water out of my laundry on my clothes airer.
      It has a little fan option I can use to speed the drying up .
      £££££’s cheaper than a tumble drier AND it stops the windows from clouding too!!

    • @neil-nx3ei
      @neil-nx3ei 5 месяцев назад

      That’s the bad boy!!!
      Same as mine!!!👍

  • @rowenaazimi9040
    @rowenaazimi9040 5 месяцев назад +14

    I am just glad summer is around the corner,, especially living in Scotland where it always feels cold for a lot of the year and I don't have to worry about how much gas I am using. I am with Eon next, and i am happy enough with them. I'm so glad you got your drone back. I left my handbag in London Kings Cross Station a few years ago, and I was rushing to catch a connecting train, and somehow, I left it on the bench I was sitting on. I thought well I am never going to see that again. It had all my credit cards and money in it. An old lady found it and handed it in to a train guard, and I did get it back luckily after phoning lost property but even as I was ringing lost property I was thinking what's the point, it's gone. 😂

  • @VileTraveller
    @VileTraveller 4 дня назад

    We had an air source heat pump installed in our old Welsh stone house because the old oil boiler was on its last legs, not too expensive with the government funding. We put in a lot of insulation, again not too expensive, and it pays for itself after a couple of years. We don't have a bath, only a shower. We also went with Octopus. We only use electric now (no gas), and our bills have gone down by a third.

  • @angelajane1038
    @angelajane1038 5 месяцев назад +15

    Octopus Energy sent me a huge pink octopus soft toy about four years ago My little grandson loves to play Lost And Found

  • @tutbell6564
    @tutbell6564 5 месяцев назад +13

    Just a thought garden shed might light up when cats and wildlife pass by.

  • @judy-dr4de
    @judy-dr4de 3 месяца назад +1

    I ALWAYS up plug and keep things unplug if I'm not using them. Many things like toasters, micros, coffee makers, tea pots, all keep using electricity even when turned off.

  • @duanephillips5358
    @duanephillips5358 5 месяцев назад +14

    If you want to save more switch your electric hob and put a dual induction plate cost about 80 quid place the induction hob just on topos the old hob, we've found 2 rings are enough.

  • @lindaedwards7840
    @lindaedwards7840 4 месяца назад +4

    Hello Sean, interesting video, thank you . I'm with Octopus for Broadband recently the company took it over from Shell. I use the same candles on a timer all year round batteries last for ages also I have small spot lights on the underside of my kitchen cupboards, and book shelves in lounge it' saves pounds to be sure, and also creates a soft light, I hardly
    ever use electric lights. Also living alone makes a difference, living the slow life here in England, growing my own veg, looking after my gardens and the bird life, creating artwork, writing , ( book published last year), I can agree with you Not so much a slow life, More doing what I want when I want, not restricted by the clock, or answering the telephone looking up at the skies and what's around me going for long walks, that's part of "Slow living" too. At the end of each day being in gratitude. 🌞💐

  • @mikeembe1261
    @mikeembe1261 5 месяцев назад +9

    Storage :
    Watching a doctors channel, they recommended for food storage use Glass / Ceramic or Stainless steel containers, which I'm switching over to.
    I'm using all my old plastic containers for Non-food items now ... nothing wasted 👍

  • @yodaami
    @yodaami 5 месяцев назад +2

    Pine kernels are lovely in a salad. In fact I think all those nutty things would be a good high protein part of a salad.

  • @user-ob3eg4hs8u
    @user-ob3eg4hs8u 5 месяцев назад +12

    Hi Sean - what a odd way to make a cup of tea 😁 you put loose leaf tea into a strainer and poured boiling water through it - eh boy ??? what on earth are you doing that's not how to make tea . You will just have lightly coloured water. What you need if one of those round metal balls for one cup of tea,that sits in to water or a tea-pot - love you loads and adore your singing 💗

    • @mikeembe1261
      @mikeembe1261 5 месяцев назад +5

      Spot on, you read my mind 😊

    • @janmarie6434
      @janmarie6434 5 месяцев назад +2

      My daughter has one of those round metal balls, they are good

  • @laurieswindow
    @laurieswindow 5 месяцев назад +9

    I would recommend double-sided sticky tape for your light. You would only need to use a hair dryer to heat the tape to remove it if it were ever necessary to do so.

  • @janecox4173
    @janecox4173 5 месяцев назад +11

    I left a camera in a bar in london after having ran the marathon. It had all the days photos on there. I realised 2 minutes after leaving the bar and went back but it was gone and had not been handed in. Sad time

  • @janeycollins3618
    @janeycollins3618 5 месяцев назад +3

    Macadamia nuts are native to Australia - and delicious, very sweet and soft. You'll enjoy those. The pine kernels ( we call them pine nuts) are great lightly toasted in a hot frypan for a couple of minutes (no oil or anything), then thrown into a salad - like baby spinach, roasted pumpkin and feta. Delish. They are also of course the base for pesto.

  • @jeditasticlymungus
    @jeditasticlymungus 5 месяцев назад +11

    Raining for a few days, seems more like a few months!😂😂

  • @BlackLines
    @BlackLines 5 месяцев назад +10

    I stuck one of those lights inside my coal bunker so if I need coal at night it automatically lights up inside when I open it and I can see when I'm chucking coal in the scuttle without needing a torch between my teeth - gamechanger 😂 👍

    • @BlackLines
      @BlackLines 5 месяцев назад +1

      @@Buzzj4k Can't beat the heat from coal. Getting expensive though but then again so is everything else - and we can always burn junkmail 😂

    • @tonyrobinson362
      @tonyrobinson362 5 месяцев назад

      ​@@BlackLinesWe burn smokeless fuel on our multi stove price gone from £285 to £557 a ton unreal lasts 3 months.

    • @BlackLines
      @BlackLines 5 месяцев назад

      @@tonyrobinson362 I'm paying £178 / 250kg for coal (delivered) from my local coal merchant 😞 That lasts about 4 weeks.

  • @cherryrotella3714
    @cherryrotella3714 5 месяцев назад +6

    I’m with Octopus and am extremely happy with their service. The largest bill I’ve had was £67. I live alone too Sean. Am careful with my energy usage while being comfortable still

  • @erikacooper8348
    @erikacooper8348 5 месяцев назад +7

    Hi Sean, I'm with Octopus and besides sending me a heated throw a couple of winters ago they sent me an e-mail two days ago to tell me they were now going to reduce the amount of monthly payment as the cost of energy is starting to come down. Re boiling the kettle for hot drinks before putting tea bag/coffee into the mug I fill my mug to the amount of water I need and tip that into the kettle for boiling, so only boiling the amount I need. I also live on my own and have to watch the budget. Best wishes from Essex.

    • @blessings4381
      @blessings4381 5 месяцев назад

      Hi from Oregon. It still quite chilly here overnight and I am on a blood thinning medication, so am cold easily. I use a heating pad at night that helps to make the whole bed cosy. I also have a small room heater that I use when very cold and I can turn down the heat during the night. We have program with our electric bill to amortize the payments over the entire year. That way we pay the same amount every month. If one has lived at their address at least one year, the utility company can average out our usage and use that as a baseline. If it changes and we are over that estimate at the end of the year, then we pay the extra amount. If we used less, we get a credit for the next month. Gas is a separate utility company. Some do the same as electric.

  • @susannecromwell3461
    @susannecromwell3461 5 месяцев назад +5

    In Denmark, if you cook and wash early in the day, it's cheaper ..😊

  • @rebekahTee-er3rz
    @rebekahTee-er3rz 5 месяцев назад +1

    I dont heat water as a daily thing- just immersion for 1 hour for a bath every few days, and heat two kettles each time for the washing up. If you stay outside throughout the day on winter ( busy at allotment), then you dont get cold sitting at home and so dont put heating on daytime like everyone else. At eve can heat just lounge and then bedroom for 1-2 hours each. Put a limit on baking, and use microwave where you can.

  • @kathymorris4553
    @kathymorris4553 5 месяцев назад +3

    You can turn your water heater way down when you’re done with it for the day. Then turn back up or on when you get up and need hot water. That will save you about $25 a month in savings

  • @Early100
    @Early100 5 месяцев назад +2

    Not sure if anyone else has mentioned but I recommend buying an electric OVER blanket, perfect for when you’re working at your desk, relaxing watching RUclips etc and even in bed. The new style ones are much safer than the old electric underblankets that you weren’t supposed to leave on, make sure it’s an OVER blanket, we use ours all the time and have saved on electric and gas, they are cheap to use, I put a throw or my duvet over ours, gets lovely and toasty and I think most of them have a timer and different heat settings too. You can buy jackets/coats with heating too, they work of a battery and are rechargeable, I haven’t bought one yet but Mazzy from the travel trolls has one and seems to like hers x

    • @amandar7719
      @amandar7719 5 месяцев назад +1

      Heated down jackets too. I’ve not used one but they range from £14 to £150 on Amazon.

  • @janesmith1398
    @janesmith1398 5 месяцев назад +10

    Try Nancy Birtwhistle. She has fantastic recipes for cleaning and laundry that are inexpensive. She also has some fantastic recipes. I'm saving for her books. My hydro and natural gas combined is $600 (£349.33) Canadian per month in the winter months. We don't have a choice of providers in my province.

  • @suegale2273
    @suegale2273 5 месяцев назад +3

    There are good honest people everywhere Sean, even London. Great you got your bag back😊

  • @troygoodacre2718
    @troygoodacre2718 5 месяцев назад +6

    Hi Sean I live in a two bedroom bungalow. With two reception rooms. I don’t have gas. But I heat with oil, the worst thing you can do is use electric heaters. I pay. £67 per month. And I’m allways in credit. . 1 thing I did buy was a butane super ser gas fire. I used it in the day time if it was chilly. To save putting the heating on. Gas is £40. And 1 bottle lasted all winter

  • @peter.7267
    @peter.7267 5 месяцев назад +8

    Hi Sean my wife and I use EDF and it’s £186 per month for a 4 bed detached in County Durham though it was £280 last year ! So I would check it out 🤷🏼‍♂️

  • @BernardDauphinais
    @BernardDauphinais 5 месяцев назад +2

    I put curtains in my living room doorways this winter because I heat my house with a wood stove and sometimes I want to keep the heat in the main living area where the stove is. We call them portières. I had put a motion sensitive light in my pantry which has louvered doors. Every time I walked past it the light would come on! Had to take it out.

  • @swington
    @swington 5 месяцев назад +3

    1. Unplug what you are not using. 2. Electric fireplace uses a lot of electricity.

  • @jenniferwalker9060
    @jenniferwalker9060 5 месяцев назад +5

    Hi Sean
    If you use tea light candles in your lounnge inside little holders, it helps heat your lounge. It really works.

  • @SardiPax
    @SardiPax 5 месяцев назад +2

    You can get plug in LED bulbs that also contain a PIR to switch on when the light level is low and they detect movement. Useful in bathrooms and cupboards.

  • @lindab746
    @lindab746 5 месяцев назад +5

    Hi Sean, if you boil your kettle to make tea several times a day, it might be worth investing in a flask and boiling the kettle less often.

  • @kristinfaison1397
    @kristinfaison1397 5 месяцев назад +8

    Hey Sean I live in Philadelphia, PA and have done some of the same things you are doing to save on utilities. My bills have gone down a bit just by not turning on the house heat and using electric heaters. I have been watching your channel for a couple of months now and looking forward to the next video.

  • @DianePahl
    @DianePahl 5 месяцев назад +4

    How about putting double sided velcro tape on the lights? That way you could easily remove them to recharge or move them to somewhere else to use them as needed. When done with whatever task, just pop them back where you usually keep them.

    • @seanjamescameron
      @seanjamescameron  5 месяцев назад +3

      Great idea!

    • @DianePahl
      @DianePahl 5 месяцев назад

      @@seanjamescameron Another idea re your heating bills when it's cold, can you get some of that window cling stuff that helps insulate your windows? I'm sorry I don't have a brand name for it but you could google it, I'm sure - window insulating film or something like that. I'm guessing your home isn't very well insulated and that would help, plus those thingies that you put on the floor by the outside door(s). Looks like a snake, lol. I did that this past winter and it brought the bill down a bit. Anything you can do to insulate will help. The biggest offenders are windows and doors and ceiling. Probably not much you can do about the ceiling but stopping up the "cracks" helps. I really hate giving my money to the utility companies, lol.

  • @GillyLavender
    @GillyLavender 5 месяцев назад +3

    Those lights are fantastic. I've been using them for a while, all around the house, and my bills are pretty good.I don't have a smart meter as I just don't want one.If I need extra light I do switch on the main light,but never leave anything switched on.I even turn the gas oven off. I don't worry about the clock not working. I'm with So Energy, who are good, but I've been thinking about trying Octopus too. We have to be real savvy, don't we Sean....as they're all out to rob us of our money.😂❤

  • @karen4you
    @karen4you 5 месяцев назад +1

    In my area no choice (USA) of utilities provider. I like solar lights, and was given barely used LED light bulbs because a building changed all out to be one color shade! Being economical is necessary. I keep house 62F all winter. Wool socks and slippers and warm clothes and life is cozy.

  • @suecox2308
    @suecox2308 5 месяцев назад +5

    Not everyone in London is awful--my husband left his camera slung on the back of his chair in an outside cafe in Green Park. When we returned in a panic, an hour later, the camera was still there waiting for us. I'm glad you found your drone--is there a "Find My Drone" app?? I understand completely about the time "slow" living takes--before convenience foods it often took my grandmother half a day to cook her family's dinner. The lights on your shed might be set off by random animals, remember!

  • @lindab3249
    @lindab3249 5 месяцев назад +4

    Instead of using glue, try getting some Command (brand name) strips. They are also strong, but have a tab you can pull to loosen which will prevent damage to your writing desk.

    • @seanjamescameron
      @seanjamescameron  5 месяцев назад +1

      Will check that out. Thanks.

    • @carolbabb7875
      @carolbabb7875 5 месяцев назад +3

      The Command hooks are great too and don't damage paint. I put one on the wall 7 yrs. ago for my hairdryer and I've never had to replace the sticky pad. Also put one on the side of the toilet for the toilet brush as I don't like the containers they go in.

  • @grahammorris311
    @grahammorris311 5 месяцев назад +6

    Get a water meter, as you live alone, I am sure that your water bill will reduce.

    • @susiesmith2852
      @susiesmith2852 5 месяцев назад +1

      You can make huge savings with a water meter. Don’t run taps doing stuff, use a bowl, never wash up one mug and shower over baths.

  • @sandraparry8653
    @sandraparry8653 5 месяцев назад +3

    Octopus are the best!
    Have you thought about solar lights, I have them , they charge all day in the window, then they light my rooms all evening. At no charge at all. 😊 Sandra. RHYL.

  • @chroniclesofchaos8402
    @chroniclesofchaos8402 5 месяцев назад +1

    I stuck these all over the house so end of the night when I turn off the living room lights n walk to the bedroom, the entire walkway takes turns lighting up just before I approach like a superstar n spotlights. Mighty grand! I sometimes do a little pizazz with my arms pointing at each light to “turn them on” like magic. Other times I strut past with grandeur like Darth Vader in Star Wars. Heh! You will also learn to time yrself when u use the bathroom in the middle of the night n rush back to bed before all goes dark. I love ‘em, even after 7 years.

  • @gabrielletanner5339
    @gabrielletanner5339 5 месяцев назад +5

    I use fairy lights....

  • @Anita-rq9ev
    @Anita-rq9ev 5 месяцев назад +7

    These lights are very useful. I use it myself for the night (little ones which I bought on Amazon). Good luck in all your endeavours Sean 🙏

  • @barbaradarragh5337
    @barbaradarragh5337 2 месяца назад

    I do exactly the same thing I do not use electric lights at night at all. The only thing running is my refrigerator and air conditioner. My bill here in Oklahoma was $65 which is very good for Oklahoma. I’m working on lowering it this month I have motion sensor light lights that are battery operated. They only cost a dollar string and two batteries so they work wonderful, yes you will save money. My bill went $95 so far to 65.

  • @apace903
    @apace903 2 месяца назад

    Sean I think your fairies borrowed😊 your spoons. They will show up where you least expect. Consider unplugging any appliances and lamps etc. you don't use all the time. Heavy curtains keep draft out. In my old house, I had curtain over front door. I found that helpful.😊

  • @user-oe7bw6cy8b
    @user-oe7bw6cy8b 5 месяцев назад +2

    You can save money by putting your washing machine at certain time of day it’s cheaper.

  • @lindahoskins3692
    @lindahoskins3692 5 месяцев назад +1

    Trongly recommend an electric throw. Not electric blanket that only goes on bed.They dont use much electric but you can wrap yourself in it in chair or bed and you stay consistently cosy without hearing on.Its important to keep your core temperature from getting too cold. I've found mine such a good investment and couldn't live without it now.

  • @sukigrice1841
    @sukigrice1841 5 месяцев назад +1

    Octopus do no power sessions where they will pay you not to use your power. It is usually at high use times but as we are retired it is no problem to have tea early or have something cold after a midday cooked meal.

  • @judimantos904
    @judimantos904 5 месяцев назад +1

    I have been using an electric blanket at night for 30+ years. It will keep you warn while you sleep + it doesn’t use much electricity.

  • @susangoulding3159
    @susangoulding3159 5 месяцев назад +3

    Sorry for 2nd comment. I purchased those magnet lights before Christmas and I can highly recommend them.

  • @carolwhite6979
    @carolwhite6979 5 месяцев назад +1

    Sean, here 🇨🇦 , there would also be transfer fees or connection fees to pay when you move into a new place. Maybe you also had that expense on your first month's bill? To reattach your light to your secretary, just get some of the velcro strips. One piece goes on the secretary the other to your light, that way, when you need to adjust something it is easy to replace

  • @susansharples8555
    @susansharples8555 5 месяцев назад +3

    Seklin Solar Lights Outdoor Motion Sensor 178 LED Solar Security. Hi Sean, we use these lights on our boat, they have been great we have had them two years, still as bright the solar is good even in winter, they would be great on your shed. They give a good amount of light enough to see way up the toe path xx

  • @dunc1958
    @dunc1958 4 месяца назад +1

    I live alone, in my terraced house, and I am with Octopus energy for both gas and electric. No problems at all my monthly direct debit is £65. My house is relatively warm because (I think) I'm pinching heat from my neighbours. The door of my house is continually open because my cat is in and out like a fluffy yoyo.

  • @Cynthia-do6fo
    @Cynthia-do6fo 5 месяцев назад +2

    Since starting to watch your channel I have been drinking more tea lol

  • @louisestopford7114
    @louisestopford7114 5 месяцев назад +1

    Hi Sean. I first accidentally found you going through RUclips and instantly picked up on your love of gardens and allotments (something I love also). Also your love of cats as we love cats as well. The first video that I saw was of you showing us around your cottage garden and I was instantly interested. I love the way you present your day to day activities and share them. So glad that I 'discovered' you and I am really enjoying your vlogs. P.S. This is in answer to your recent question as I didn't seem to be able to comment on the actual video for some reason!!). Looking forward to following your journal and seeing how the cottage and allotment develops. There is also something comforting to be able to listen to you discuss everyday events as you come across as such a genuine and nice person. Thanks Sean.

  • @vegemitegirl1971
    @vegemitegirl1971 4 месяца назад

    Another way to reduce heating costs is to hang thick curtains on your windows, not just in the doorway. We've got thick sunblock curtains which are also great for keeping heat out in summer. Because of this, we don't turn our air conditioner on until the temperature is +35°c in summer.
    I keep my makeup on top of an old chest of drawers. Sadly, it's very dark in that part of the room so I have round battery operated lamps. They each take 3 X AAA batteries and are turned on and off by touching the light area

  • @valeriemither8226
    @valeriemither8226 5 месяцев назад +2

    Nice to see the book book I made you, being used as a bedside lamp, I do suggest that to people!

    • @seanjamescameron
      @seanjamescameron  5 месяцев назад +1

      And very easy to get lost inside while falling all to sleep.

  • @valeriefields7383
    @valeriefields7383 5 месяцев назад +1

    Hi Sean, when you have your electric fire on usually you don’t need to have fire effects lights on, you still get heat, small saving but every little adds up.

  • @carolvenables3970
    @carolvenables3970 5 месяцев назад +3

    I'm moving soon Sean so that's a good tip , to talk to your supplier. ❤❤

  • @chrysalis4126
    @chrysalis4126 4 месяца назад

    I use a 3w bulb in my bedside lamp and a lamp in my sitting room. I boil the kettle once a day and make a full flask of coffee which usually lasts me the full day. I also have an electric blanket on my bed which is great for my arthritis and uses low electricity and means I don't need to put the bedroom radiator on.

  • @gigis.garden
    @gigis.garden 5 месяцев назад +2

    Hi Shaun, I noticed when you were comparing the months Jan was a 30-day month but Feb was only 20 days!. I use solar charged fairl lights in my kitchen with the little sun catcher bit just pointing out the window, being in doors they have lasted well over a year now

  • @cherryrotella3714
    @cherryrotella3714 5 месяцев назад +1

    I bought a quick boil kettle … boils one cup of water in 43 seconds unlike my previous one which took 1minute 25 seconds!

  • @nneichan9353
    @nneichan9353 5 месяцев назад +3

    I no longer use heating or air con, I can't afford it. I won't do anything except sit with a fan unless the cat is uncomfortable. then I'd turn what ever he needs, heating or cooling. I use only one or two LED lights. I am currently using a hot pad for my back. I wonder if the bills will be too high because of that.

  • @Jane_and_Meg
    @Jane_and_Meg 5 месяцев назад +1

    Hi Sean, energy saving light on bulbs are the way to go too. Mainly your electricity will rack up more with electric heaters and cookers but you know that - they are the biggest users of electric. With Octopus btw, they have an App too which is really useful. I have it and it's brilliant if you want to keep an eye on your usage, make a one off payment or lower your monthly direct debit.
    Pulling your curtains just as the sun starts to set will help keep the heat in too esp in the Winter.
    Also doing your washing on a lower heat setting on your washing machine will make a big difference. If the quick wash is not good enough try using a program on 40c or 60c - 30c would be best though. I rarely use 90c cottons - I would reserve that more for a maintenance wash . Good idea with the new washing line that is the way forward.

  • @det2380
    @det2380 5 месяцев назад +8

    Hi Sean, don't you think that if you use those lights on the alotment some cats or foxes wil turn them on.

  • @claudinevandamme4809
    @claudinevandamme4809 2 месяца назад

    Hi great video again...I love this cute little fire you have in the living room...so cute. Those economic light are great..I will try finding them over here in walkerville, SA. I did look at the leeks...😂 26:44

  • @juliawigger9796
    @juliawigger9796 5 месяцев назад +2

    Solar lights are great! Leave them in the sunniest part of garden, will see you through most of night.

  • @sueparsons6919
    @sueparsons6919 5 месяцев назад +1

    Best thing you did going to Octopus they look after their customersn. Also you were luck to get your shopping bag back, after leaving it in the shop. Like you said if it happened in London, you wouldnt have seen it again. Shows you there are still.honest people about.

  • @maryl234
    @maryl234 4 месяца назад

    I save the most (in US here) by turning my heat way down in the winter and wearing layers and a knit hat inside. It's warm and cozy. I also layer blankets on my bed if I need them. I sleep better when it's not too warm in my bedroom. If it's too cold in the morning, I might turn the heat up for a few minutes, just a few degrees. I regret not doing this starting years ago. I would have saved a lot of money. I also use a drying rack and avoid using the dryer most of the time.

  • @susanangelo7737
    @susanangelo7737 5 месяцев назад +1

    Added a heated mattress Pad this year. Game changer.

  • @elodieleaf
    @elodieleaf 5 месяцев назад +4

    ❤Goodmorning Sean and thanks for the video. I have huge electricity bills as I rely on medical equipment that needs to be charged (powered wheelchair/bathlift/stairlift/or constantly plugged in like my specialised hospital bed. Hope you have lovely weekend with lots of sunshine 😘☀️

    • @juliawigger9796
      @juliawigger9796 5 месяцев назад +5

      Do talk to your electricity provider! They have discounts for vulnerable people and in bad weather will give you prior warning of power cuts. Also make you an urgent customer so you get reconnected ASAP.

    • @elodieleaf
      @elodieleaf 5 месяцев назад +2

      @@juliawigger9796 thanks. I am on all priority lists and get discounts. But it does not match my usage

    • @juliawigger9796
      @juliawigger9796 5 месяцев назад +3

      @elodieleaf I sympathise. Have same problem. Hope your on full PIP. Take care 💝

    • @elodieleaf
      @elodieleaf 5 месяцев назад

      @@juliawigger9796 I have ALS/Motor Neurone Disease. Take care Julia❤️

  • @emmsue1053
    @emmsue1053 4 месяца назад

    Uhh, we are all the same I think Sean.. Yikes, ring the gas and leccy & see if they have a better plan it seems a lot? Strangely its the kettle uses the most leccy in small appliances! Have swapped all the lightbulbs to LED a while ago and put all lamps on timers. It really has helped a bit.. The slow cooker is a boon! Those bar lights in the bathroom are great. You have given me a brainwave for putting one in the kitchen!! . Thanks for posting, mix up your nuts and buy a big tub? Glad you found your Go Pro and mike.. Take care.

  • @colleenmckinlay2916
    @colleenmckinlay2916 5 месяцев назад +2

    Love those lights Sean. Definitely will try to find them on my Canadian Amazon. Would be perfect in my cedar garden shed and in our cupboards in our carport. They will be a perfect addition to your allotment shed. 🇨🇦👍🏻

  • @welshmanjasonpatrick8607
    @welshmanjasonpatrick8607 5 месяцев назад +3

    Nice health nuts people in wales good and truthful good to see got strong washing line great video

  • @missmaryhdream6560
    @missmaryhdream6560 5 месяцев назад +1

    Put them in an large coffee jar, ask about, people will keep them for you ❤

  • @falusitablet8747
    @falusitablet8747 5 месяцев назад

    Hi Sean. In Canada we can get a product that shrink wraps your windows. Amazon, type in winter window kits. See what you get, if it's not available in Britain let me know, it works very well. Make sure you have a good seal around your entry door, get or make sausage dog insulators, I'm sure someone would make you some 😊 also, we turn our electric bed bottom blanket on its lowest setting 15mins before turning in, gorgeous! Goes off in 30mins. We don't have the heat on at night, got a thermostat that we can manually program. Dee x

  • @suedolan5231
    @suedolan5231 5 месяцев назад +2

    Thanks

  • @wendymitchell4004
    @wendymitchell4004 5 месяцев назад +1

    Electric is always higher than gas ..make sure you turn off all switches on apliances as standby uses lots of electricity ..i agree Octopus energy are a good company ..dont forget there is a standing charge on both .😊 Solar powered lights would be good for the shed

  • @Petersallotment
    @Petersallotment 5 месяцев назад +3

    Think the wildlife will make the lights on and off a lot .

  • @juliedunkley5183
    @juliedunkley5183 5 месяцев назад +1

    I'm with ovo. Your standing charge is higher than mine. Yours 58.01p mine is 45.29 a day (electric) your gas is also about 5p a day more. I have a 3 bed house and live alone and my Jan-Feb bill was £78.

  • @davidburd5164
    @davidburd5164 5 месяцев назад +2

    Great heads up re the magnetic lights sean, will be ordering soon. Thanks fella

  • @nneichan9353
    @nneichan9353 5 месяцев назад +1

    maybe get some double sided sticky tape to put the light up again, sort of like a refresh for the sticky mount.
    I've also got several solar charge lights that work well for the more frequent black outs we've been having.

  • @DaisyDreamer72
    @DaisyDreamer72 3 месяца назад

    Lights use hardly anything if you have low energy lightbulbs. Including the cost of the lights you've probably spent more. Also, solar charger lights would be better for your allotment. Motion sensor lights would be triggered by foxes, bags etc

  • @carol.luna.stella
    @carol.luna.stella 5 месяцев назад +1

    The microwave non-branded soup mugs from home bargains and b&m are very cheap. As well as using them for heating liquids you could store your chopped nuts in them.

  • @DebbieRobb-tt5he
    @DebbieRobb-tt5he 5 месяцев назад +2

    Hi Sean.
    Our gass and electric is very expensive in london.
    I do like those light s.