19. Cost of Living Alone Hits Hard (Winter)

The bills for January have started to arrive but I don't know whether to be shocked or not.
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[@seanjamescameron]

NOTE: The bill is from a Smart Meter, provider Ovo. And a slow cooker is in the post.

[@highcompressionhead7940]

Ditch the smart meter! I live in Barry with my daughter & I've never had bills that big & I'm with ovo.

[@w.dossett3332]

Sean, I run a four bedroom house on 330 pounds per month. I use both gas and electric. I am also with ovo in England

[@Honeybee-ym5vi]

In America, they don't give you an option. Smart meters are installed everywhere. People who own their homes and fight the companies (because of the radiation) have their service terminated. Usually, each area has only one company who provides electricity.

[@volt8684]

Sean I live alone and am with octopus in 4 bed house gas and electric. My bills are £120 a calendar month for 12 months. I leave it on permanent 11pm-1700 18 degs. 1700-2300 22degs. I have an air fryer and a slow cooker. I sometimes tumble dry. My bill for Xmas /january (3 kids came to stay a while) was £225. I had a mains shower installed as electric shower was ridiculous cost. Don’t have a smart meter. Octopus seem to have very good reviews.

[@juliedunkley5183]

Look at an instant pot, it is a pressure cooker, slow cooker, plus other settings. I don't use my oven just an air fryer

[@wales123100]

They write to me every week pressuring me to get a smart meter installed i wont do it dont trust them

[@paulsnowdon5210]

Don't ever get a smart meter, they are not safe, with the radiation that they give off. I do recall seeing how they were going to make it mandatory to have one, and giving the installers powers of entry, but I do not know if that is in force yet. I hope it isn't.

[@yant8777]

You are right ! First thing that happens with a smart meter is your bill will increase !

[@gaynorprior9864]

They are constantly nagging me as well

[@clarewild5196]

Same. They can whistle 😏

[@jacks2222]

They pressure people into it because they can gather a lot of information from them. Not just the amount of fuel you're using.. when you're in or out, what time you go to bed, when you get up etc etc. They can then sell that information and profit from it. But they spin it like it's a way you can see what you're using which is misleading in the most disgusting way because they charge you more to rip you off and data r*p£ you. They're also really bad for your health.

[@barbarahughes6009]

I live in Australia and that bill seems very high.What I have done for the last 3 years is heat the house up,close all the doors and use an electric throw in the evening when I’m reading or watching tv.This tends to keep me really warm and uses very little electricity and suits my lifestyle because I tend to be sitting in the evening.I also heat the bed with an electric blanket before I go to bed.I’m never cold.I hope this helps you to cut back comfortably because there’s no point if it leaves you feeling cold

[@sandrafinbar]

It's a lot colder and for a longer period of time in the UK than here in Australia. I don't even use a heater. Mould takes over if the house is too cold and damp.

[@rowan7658]

I do that too here in the UK; heat the person not the house.

[@jairie2023]

I have an electric blanket...life saver.🎉❤

[@seniartisuyadi1157]

I live in Italy my Bill of the only gas is € 400.00 we are just 2 persone.

[@aatravelandstuff2958]

Well I live in Canada! And that is right on the money! How much we paid for are power bill in January I did have a teenager stay that month.So lots of extra electricity and water bill

[@quailqueen6530]

Your bill sounds quite high. Consider boiling a large pot of water in the morning when you make your first cuppa then put the rest of the hot water into a flask (or two) to give you hot drinks all during the day.

[@sandrafinbar]

Good idea.

[@littleredrose6254]

That's what I do.

[@beaulieuc8910]

yes I do this I have 2 big flasks

[@chrysalis4126]

I do that too, means only boiling the kettle once.

[@jaydunstan1618]

Crap advice.

[@jojoflowermilady1791]

We rang the utilities and had the amount reduced based on summer readings. It doesn’t distract from the fact that we are being ripped off and the government is complicit. We find ourselves questioning ‘are we really cold’, ‘what if we lived in X place’, of course those places don’t pay as much, it’s frustrating and not right that we have those battles in our heads 😢

[@bettygraham818]

It’s the standing charge and VAT that’s criminal particularly on electricity. Without them , my electric would have been £14 last month even though I use my washing machine frequently! In the so called ‘bad old days’ after the War, most houses private or rented , had an open fire. Even if you were desperately poor as my family was, you could collect bits of wood and fir cones for the fire and at least have something to sit by and keep warm. After the powers that be persuaded us to change to gas and remove chimneys, we are now chained to the domination of gas. Now we are told to cut down on what we use ! We can’t win !

[@dotmenziesholden1251]

Whatever you do to try to save money they just keep increasing the standing charges to compensate, bills never get any less. It's a scandal and the Government is complicit.

[@voxintenebris6367]

Funny you said that, I had just listened to an interview with a man living in Russia and he said that his energy bill was 15 - 20 Euros; we are being mugged off in the name of 'green' energy. @@bettygraham818

[@felicitywoodruffe4087]

Sean you will use less fuel if you cook with a lid on your pan . The smaller the pieces the less time to cook Try to plan your meals so that you can make good use of the fuel so if you are simmering soup in a pan try steaming another food item over the soup to make use of that hot steam If you are cooking something in your oven think about cooking some roasted potatoes radishes small turnips parsnips and maybe some scones or biscuits . The roasted vegetables can be added to soups or stews another day .or you could chop them and add them to a cottage pie or some homemade pasties.

[@humbledandgrateful7411]

Terrific suggestions 👌

[@Rajamak]

Yeah, I’ve switched from making a casserole in the oven to in a pot with a lid on the hob for that very reason. Way less “leckie” 👍😁

[@carolwhite6979]

really good recommendations! I have a small oven that is older but efficient. When I use it for one thing., I sill often do a double recipe, one to eat and one to freeze for another day.

[@Catherine-vf5lx]

Buy a steamer for your hob, if you look in the charity shops you may find one, your bill is very very high compared to mine for the month.

[@yellowbird5411]

Whenever I am cooking anything on my one burner, I use a bigger pot than normal and throw in potatoes (sometimes whole), carrots, chunks of cabbage, or even some chicken. Depends on what it is I am cooking. I keep the leftover pot in the fridge and bring it out, sometimes adding more of something to it, and heat it up. I can stretch a pot of "stuff" like this for about five days, only needing to heat it up or cook it lightly. But even putting part of it in another pan saves cooking from raw. I also use a passive cooking method, where once it's at the boil for a couple of minutes, I turn the heat off, and don't touch the lid. It continues to cook. After about an hour I will check it. Passive cooking in a heavy pot or in a passive cooker is priceless for saving money. Some people make their own passive cookers with a cardboard box lined with an old quilt or old towels. The pot is placed in it and covered with the quilt on all sides. This can also be done in an old ice chest. There are passive cookers on the market, but they are expensive.

[@ThecovertCustomer]

I’m here too. Single older person going down the tubes - down to huge every and rent costs. It’s much harder as a single person as there’s no one to share the financial burden with. Being alone doesn’t equal half the expenses.

[@johncasey5594]

I can't get these millennials and zennials crying they can't afford to live on their own. I am 55 and have never been on my own. Went from my parents house to renting room and board for a year. Then moved into an off campus rooming house with 29 other people. Then rented a house with 5 other people. Then moved in with my wife. P.S. Worst roommate of them all. LOL. Who said just because you work 40 hours a week you should be able to afford to live on your own. News to me.

[@marycerullo8455]

I’m a scrimper and come from a long line of scrimpers. Here are some methods I use to control my energy costs. First identify the large users. Your furnace. Heating a home is expensive, especially an old cottage with little if any insulation. I live in Ontario Canada and our winters can be very cold. About 1/2 hour or so before bed, turn down your thermostat. It will take a bit before to begin to feel it and by that time, it’s time for bed and then turn it back up in the morning. And if you’re going out for a few hours, do the same thing. There are programmable thermostats that will take care of this. Make sure all your bulbs are LED type (very inexpensive to run) and get yourself a counter top oven large enough to cook in. No use using the stove oven for one person meals. Make large pots of stews and soups. And while hot, pour the extra into a mason jar to seal on the counter once cooled store them in your cupboard or a cool area of the house. When you want soup, just open a jar and reheat. Fast, inexpensive and the soup is richer in taste. These are new habits you will have to form. Love your channel. Good luck.

[@barbaracarter6726]

an air fryer is even better than a countertop oven. I love mine and couldn't do without it.

[@jaydunstan1618]

Also, having one bath a month helps - as a SCRIMPER!

[@jaydunstan1618]

@@barbaracarter6726 Stop being LAZY Barbara and cook a meal!

[@a123phi5]

"Make large pots of stews and soups. And while hot, pour the extra into a mason jar to seal on the counter once cooled store them in your cupboard or a cool area of the house." Do not do this! Gasp! Stored in a cupboard? Cooked meals should be refrigerated or frozen.

[@barbaracarter6726]

@@jaydunstan1618 How dare you accuse me of being lazy. An Air fryer is just an appliance to cook in. Did you take lessons in rudeness? You seem to be a grumpy0guts today.

[@maxinedyer8368]

Also, personally I’ve found that buying frozen veg and fruit is so much cheaper than buying fresh. It’s supposed to be more nutritious too because everything is picked and immediately frozen which seals in the goodness. My freezer is so important to me in terms of saving money I would put one in the living room or dining room if I didn’t have space in the kitchen. Once you begin to harvest your lovely homegrown veg you’ll be able to stock up and with minimal cost.

[@barbaraireland5479]

A head of cabbage use to be so cheap here but it has gone from 39 cents a pound to 89 cents. I can't wait to grow my own vegetables this year.

[@patcardiff2563]

Maxine it is so much cheaper and you can make lovely soup with frozen veg that is something I have tried and is really tasty

[@dec_2024]

Sean, crikey £15 for a doz eggs, bacon and a soup pack of vegetables and why are you buying strawberries out of season? I am in London in a 2 bed house with 2 adults both at home daily, and my average monthly cost for gas and electricity across the year - low for Summer and high for winter is £85 per month. You may want to get a free assessment of your home to ensure you are being as efficient as you can be with regards to your utilities usage,

[@swanseawales1979]

I live in a 2 bedroom flat in Swansea. My electric bill each month is £70 per month and gas is £20 per month. I work from home mostly. I hardly ever use my heating, if I ever do it’ll go on for 10 minutes as I wear jumpers and hoodies mostly

[@taniayager3361]

Same here! Teddy fleece has been my saviour in bedding and clothing!

[@SonetLandman]

I am South African and it is getting harder and harder for me to survive on my own as well. The cost of living has become so high. Our electricity here is outrageously expensive.

[@maggiecraven9625]

Hi Sean the soup mix isn’t really a meal on its own. You would usually add the prepared mix to some stock and other veg eg leeks and carrots then simmer for a while, you can get on with something else while that goes on. Add scraps of lamb or ham if you have them. You can do the soaking/simmering of the whole pack and freeze some in portions ready for another day. This saves time and energy cost. The washing isn’t as bad as it sounds, a quick rinse is all that’s needed. It is really nutritious and a cheap way of stretching your veg and much better than buying tins of processed soup. You could make a big pan of soup and keep in fridge/ freezer to do your lunches for the week. Take it in a flask if you’re out and about. Just my thoughts, if it’s not for you then that’s grand. Sorry to ramble on. Energy seems expensive, what are the unit of energy costs? I’m with octopus, you can go on their website and see if they can quote for your postcode. Also if you are not on direct debit then the energy companies sometimes charge more per unit. Hope you feel better soon, it will be spring before you know it.

[@user-lr2wl5sp1b]

Agreed, it’s a cheaper way to add protein to soups and stews. Quicker and cheaper to cook if you have a pressure cooker.

[@christhomas8332]

Trouble with direct debit is they tried twice to take over £300 instead of £95 that was agreed, they sent me overdrawn and I had to call the bank to cancel it, this caused so much stress and I now pay each month online so they can't steal from me again.

[@joan486]

Yes. We always added ham or sausage. But you can add any variety of meats. Smoked meats are the best with the beans in my opinion. And don’t forget the cornbread. Always serve with cornbread lol!😊

[@jaydunstan1618]

No, he can live off of that and Seawater too!

[@jaydunstan1618]

@@shelaghrichardson1294 It is NASTY Scran.

[@murkydepths181]

If I were in your cottage I would create a cover for the cooker and buy an induction hob. They are fantastically quick to heat up and cost a fraction of the cost of running any other type of stove 😉

[@chrispnw2547]

I agree 100% BUT you have to spend more money to save money.

[@amandaneal1556]

The energy bill seems very high. I have a bigger house and due to medical issues use my heating more than most. I alqays submit readings to get an accurate bill. My monthly pomb8ned bill is under £150 per month. I would query that amount.

[@cannymoose]

I just wack the dry soup mix in the small slow cooker with a third bag of frozen veg and a stock cube. Makes 2 hearty meals, then can mix curry powder or herbs in it for the next day to change it up on day 2.

[@Lucysmom26]

yeah those instructions on the soup mix were nuts - rinsing it before AND after? soaking? I bet they're putting people off buying it with all that, it makes it sound like such an operation. It's like you said, just chuck it in some water, simmer, done.

[@kenneyg100]

@@Lucysmom26 I agree. I've never rinsed. I use a pressure cooker. Add whatever I want to the mix

[@DaisyDreamer72]

Hiya, I'm pretty sure the soup mix is supposed to be added to a soup rather than eaten on it's own. I normally add it to soups and stews that i make to make them more hearty. I only recently found you and am enjoying watching your channel. I'm planning a move up to Scotland (from Gloucestershire) on my own so it's inspiring to see someone else setting up home somewhere else.. even though I know you come from there.

[@Angel-002]

If you buy an electric pressure cooker you can do a big pan of soups, stews & casseroles in no time at all. Then you can freeze some & all you have to do then is reheat it when you want it so it'll save on your electric. As many people have already mentioned the soup mix is meant to be used with other ingredients & stock. If you buy a full chicken its cheaper than buying chicken breast & you can have a few roast dinners with it & sandwiches/salad & still have enough to make a chicken & veg soup & a chicken (& veg if you like) curry. The pressure cooker can be used for cooking your veg for meals in about 6 minutes too so that would save on electric too. You can also cook meat & joints of meat in the pressure cooker & its a lot quicker & cheaper than using your oven. Also, when you boil the kettle for your cups of tea fill a flask up & it saves you having to keep using the kettle/electricity again. Hope this helps you. Love your videos too by the way.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Holy moly. UK prices are high! We’re electric only here in France and 65€ a month for lighting, water heating, laundry, dishwashing, and cooking. We heat with a wood stove. We pay 600€ a year for 12 cubic meters of oak. Heating and electricity combined is 125€ a month over the year and the house is always warm. House is 100 metres square.

[@aestheticsbyjasmine940]

Yep and france bought all our gas years ago when thatcher sold us down the river and now they are selling it back to us 😮 it's insane

[@denisescally7090]

We only pay £87 per month and we're in Scotland. I think that's about 100 euros per month equivalent. We're about 990 square feet and yes, cosy with full central heating. I think Sean needs to look into his bill.

[@justmenicole4842]

Ouch sounds expensive to me ! House here is 2500 square feet on 2 floors and i run my dog grooming business attached to it and we pay 200$ a month for all .heating, water.etc. ( 145€) and if got to claim some back on my taxes for them part I use for my business

[@voxintenebris6367]

My gas and electricity come to almost a £1,000 a month, and that is to heat a two bed terraced house in the same valley area. I will not have a smart meter.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

@@Buzzj4k c'est magnifique 😻

[@lynnedawson4116]

Hi Sean, that soup mix is to add to soups and stews - it bulks it out. Don’t eat it in its own, it’s simply an added ingredient. Energy costs are expensive and the first month is always the unknown month, to gauge what energy costs and other utility costs will be. It’s getting warmer, so don’t worry - it’ll pan out for the rest of the year.

[@jaydunstan1618]

Soup mix can be enjoyed with a mug of boiled water.

[@lyndaturner6686]

I live in Cornwall and the rain has been incessant for weeks, so not just Wales, When you first moved in you were boiling water on a solid ring electric cooker, quite expensive way of boiling water now you have an electric kettle that will be cheaper, but these days gas and electricity is hugely expensive, we have bottled gas as there isn’t any mains gas in our village. It’s £73 a bottle and we buy two at a time to heat water and central heating so January and February are most expensive if it’s very cold but we also have an electric fire to save gas. I would say your bills are average for the winter months but will be much cheaper when it warms up. One way is to pay monthly all year round that way you cover the expensive months , saves getting a shock. I think that dried vegetables you have is better added to something like a ham shank to make soup otherwise it’s not very tasty. I remember using it 50 years ago when freezers weren’t so common , I would chuck it now and use your fresh veg to make a healthy tasty soup, also chicken is less calories than lamb so will help with your weight loss programme. Hope you’re feeling better soon .❤️

[@corbishpasty]

I’m also in Cornwall, we are currently paying £95 per bottle, do you mind me asking where you get your bottles please?

[@carencassidy2359]

Hi Sean, I can relate somewhat to you having CFS as I have had Fibromyalgia for over 35 years now. I understand how the fatigue is like hitting a wall that comes out of nowhere. I commend you in that you embrace life with gusto regardless and even if it takes you down at times, you keep pushing through. My motto is, “You have to keep moving to keep living!”👍🏻

[@annwright7552]

I live in a small dwelling thats all electric and first bills were a shock. Switched all light bulbs to energy saving and bought side lamps to use instead of the existing 4 ceiling lights. Also a one cup kettle to use less power. Made a big difference so its true, every little helps 😁

[@angelanewman5566]

I did wonder what your bills would be like when I saw you going about the house in a t-shirt! I wear multiple layers and use a heated throw when I'm sat down in the evenings which seems to use very little electricity. I bought an air fryer last year and have hardly used my oven since - would highly recommend - much quicker and cheaper , and you don't need a very big one when you live on your own.

[@gwynethgrove772]

Test the meter first, then check timers and cut back 30 minutes on each session. Turn thermostats down a number, turn hot water down a degree or two. Use a slow cooker and make 3 days worth at one go and reheat in the microwave (cheap). Make sure you draw curtains as it gets dark, right round the house. Use hot water bottles and throws over your knees when you’re sitting down. Put a jumper on and wear slippers. They are ll simple things but really do save you fuel costs.

[@viviennemichaels666]

Hi Sean, I live in a one bed cottage in Scotland. January bill for all electric home was £188. I wouldn't turn off the heating for a day, as the cottage will lose it's core temperature. When I moved here, I took a meter reading at the same time, every evening. I did this for a week in winter, so I would always know my normal usage. Obviously there are many variables, I submit a meter reading, on the last day of every month, to keep billing correct. The soup mix is more of a base/bulk for soup and stews, and really bland without lots of other flavours. Best wishes to you, and the cats in your new home.

[@christinesimpkin570]

Sweet monkey picture,Sean. Have some rest, you must be kind to yourself with CFS. You are doing remarkably well with all the stress you have had with the move and settling in etc. You made a good decision to move but you must pace yourself now. Love and thoughts 🤝🏻🙏🏼🕊

[@kathleen5237]

Hi Sean. If you soak the soup mix overnight in boiling water and half a teaspoon of bicarbonate of soda, it cooks much faster and the soda softens the peas. Then you can cook potatoes, onions and maybe a little ham or other meat, rinse the soup mix in water and cook with the rest.

[@kevinricketts6528]

Hi Sean. Space heating is expensive. Don't heat the whole house or heat at a lower temperature. Adjust each radiator to suit. In your snug set the electric fire to switch off at say 20C and you'll be surprised at the amount of electricity not used ( in my snug only about 2.5kW over 8 hours) Use the fan to warm the snug quickly and distribute the heat for comfort. But a heated throw to sit on and an electric blanket for the bed. Both use next to no electricity. Rise oh falling fighter and keep well. You are helping me through a serious post-op situation.

[@barbaradavidson1950]

We have started cutting back where we can. Using oil lamps instead of lights, unplug the kettle and putting it in a thermos when it's done, blankets and layers. Everything is getting so expensive.

[@petra_b709]

Start using led lights, less expensive than lamp oil

[@clarewild5196]

Short cycles for washing, flicking kettle off just as it comes to the boil & using the residual heat from the hob rings when cooking. The remaining heat will mean your pot carries on boiling for 5 minutes after it's switched off. It sounds very penny pinching however it all adds up. Use slow cooker to make big batch meal then portion it up & freeze leftovers. The heating will always be the biggest money pit sadly.

[@nigelnigel.]

It's 2024 it's so sad we are forced to live like this 😞

[@balthus9105]

Ditch the washing machine and just wash clothes in the sink, works just as well and no electricity used.

[@Lucysmom26]

There are loads of comments so maybe someone already said it but I don't see anything in that soup mix that would require soaking. I eat a ton of beans etc. (all dried as they're cheaper) and cook all except red kidneys from dry in a pot of water. Whole grains, too, which I see in the mix, just get cooked without a soaking. As for flavour, you're meant to add some stock or other flavourings, too. You could use a rasher or 2 of that good bacon, saute leeks or onions in the bacon fat, make the soup in the same pan and then crumble the cooked bacon (and some grated cheddar) on top afterwards - delicious.

[@sukigrice1841]

Yes your bill is high. Consider boiling kettle once and store rest in flasks for kater. I use the soup mix and add it to a general veg soup. Consider a pressure cooker/instant pot/slow cooker to cook slow dishes. You could possibly find something in a charity shop. Some of the bigger ones do electrical items.

[@seanjamescameron]

Slow cooker is in the post.

[@NicholaLewis]

You could keep the dry soup mix and add a few spoon fulls to cawl or casserole in the slow cooker. It will make your food go further and be cheaper to cook.

[@chrisleon9769]

I live alone too and I unplug everything I'm not using and only plug in when I'm going to use it. That saves me money on my electric bill. So interesting you have a green grocer that goes to your house. I would enjoy that to save money on gasoline. Thank you for sharing your day.

[@elaine8955]

I think its high my last bill was £160 and there 3 of us in our house December was about £200 . Always send them a meter reading in .

[@elaine8955]

@@grumpy_poo that's so sad 😞

[@denisescally7090]

We’re two people in a 2 bed bungalow in Scotland £150 a month at the moment. That’s about 6 hours of heating per day and cooking etc. We have cut back using the 10 kw electric shower though! I kept a daily meter readings record for about a year until I felt comfortable with our habits and useage. It’s kind of necessary with all the price increases

[@leet2762]

Ouch, seems expensive 😮. I use the soup mix but don’t soak it as I always simmer soup for ages after bringing to the boil. I add stock, potatoes, onion ,leaks, turnip Swede and carrots, yum.

[@clare9695]

Seems very high to me, but I'm not familiar with gas. I use oil for heating, and my combined electric/oil bill for a cold winter month is around £170 (average size house). For a warm summer month it can dip to around £65 per month. I love the decoration in memory of Rusty, whoever made it is very talented and thoughtful.

[@annasutton8078]

Hi, I use a pressure cooker. You can do soup and all in one pot pasta.I never use my main oven either. Your veggies looked lovely, eggs too. We have our heating on for an hour in the morning and an hour in the evening. During the day we are out and about a lot. At home I may leave my coat on, if I feeling chilly. Its different for every body isnt it.

[@debravaldez1196]

You need to cook the soup mix in a stock Sean for flavour, it’s to add to soups and stews. -I buy a chicken, roast it, have a dinner from that with veg. Then strip the remaining meat off the bones and put in fridge. Simmer the bones in the slow cooker on high overnight in plenty of water Strain the bones out of the stock, put stock back in slow cooker with chopped onion, celery, carrots, bit of swede, potato and a couple of stock cubes - I use Kallo organic chicken stock cubes, then add your soaked soup mix and season with salt and pepper and a sprig or two of thyme and a squirt of ketchup (about a dessert spoon) - cook on high for four or five hours then add the left over chicken rolled in cornflour - which will thicken the soup - and cook for another hour or so This will last you two or three days - or you could freeze some Might sound like a phaff but once you’ve done it a few times it’s very easy 😊

[@LazyDaisyDay88]

Thank you for sharing - I'm going to try that. Sounds good!

[@debravaldez1196]

@@LazyDaisyDay88you’re welcome - and it is tasty!

[@OurSmallholdingAdventure]

Same here, it come naturally once you’ve done it a few times doesn’t it. So good to share

[@thetweegarden]

My bill for the similar period is £285. 3 bed semi. Family of 4. Washing machine and tumble dryer on several times a day. I’d say yours is very expensive. My energy use is much higher and my prices are the same so your charges are high. Also I wanted to say have a look at the power output on your new electric fire, some are efficient but some eat money. Central heating is often cheaper than electric heaters if they are high output and it’ll help keep the house free of damp. Also Sean the slow cooker, air fryer (if you get one) and kettle will help with your bills going forward. Electric cookers consume a lot of electricity. 😊

[@SausageFingers73]

Sean, I live on my own in a 2 bed terrace, have dishwasher, tumble dryer and washing machine, and I pay £91 a month in total, which is actually an increase on last year. That's in Lincolnshire and the supplier is EDF. Everything is electric, the only gas is my heating and hot water. Hope that helps put it into context. Cheers James

[@user-dd7sm8er9u]

Sean in N. Ireland we make vegetable soup with a piece of shin or brisket in it for flavour. The fresh vegetables come pre packed and chopped, carrots, leeks, parsley, parsnip and celery. You start your soup by sweating an onion, put your meat in, add your stock and then the vegetables. You then use the soup mix to thicken it up, you dob't need to wash it. Leave to simmer for a couple of hours until meat starts to fall apart. As you would say, beautiful. Good one for the slow cooker.

[@a123phi5]

You do need to wash the soup mix. Did you see all the starch and debris that came off his bowl of beans? All beans and rice should be washed, soaked for a bit, and washed again. Otherwise, I agree completely. :)

[@jaydunstan1618]

Paddy Stew - LOVE IT!

[@a123phi5]

@@jaydunstan1618 wash the beans first.

[@jaydunstan1618]

@@a123phi5 Wash them in Guinness or Paisley's tears?

[@Jane_and_Meg]

Hi Sean, in addition to what I previously said. Pull your curtains just as the light is beginning to go, apart from the room you are in plus get some insulation foil and put it behind your radiators on outside walls won't make a big difference but it will help - it's easy to fit - there is a YT vid which shows you how. Of course your slow cooker will make a big difference once it arrives. 🙂

[@donnacolwell3988]

If you don't already have LED bulbs in all the light fixtures, it is worth changing them out even if the bulbs haven't burnt out yet. I saved a surprising amount on my electric bill by doing this.

[@lindsayhanson2338]

I’m in the US but our electric bill (we don’t have gas in our house) was over $500. Also, for the soup mix: we call them soup beans and they are great on a cold winter day. I highly recommend you cook them in chicken stock with some bacon or other smoked pork, then serve with ham of some variety. For us they are a meal you can start in the morning before work or appointments and then come home to hearty food.

[@kasandrabrown8611]

Love your honesty regarding putting that greenhouse together. Probably more fun playing with the cats. People love seeing cats on KZbin and sharing their stories.

[@Maria24270]

Check with Ovo you are on the best deal as the bill is high. If looking to save money buy veg from a shop rather than a delivery service or get a supermarket online delivery. Strawberries out of season are rather tasteless, try frozen fruit, blueberries, raspberries. Farm shops, organic produce are great if you have the money but prioritise rent, utility bills and see what’s left.

[@trendtraderx]

Cooking can be expensive. Fast cook menu with a wok? I used microwave discs like snugglesafe to keep warm. Used by vets for injured animals they are brilliant to put in the bed or on the back of the sofa to keep warm. The cats will love them. Also air shake handwarmers bought by the box off ebay with a bag of coins or keys in a pocket really heats up and keeps your core warm. Good for inside and outside winter walks.

[@kazkimber5310]

We use an air fryer instead of the cooker. Last time oven was used was Xmas day. Use a slow cooker also. Our gas is low, but we do have a log burner.

[@marie-clairekeen3023]

Yes air fryers help the electricity bill.

[@aestheticsbyjasmine940]

Same always using air fryer now. But its the heating that's killing me so expensive

[@activistgranny2.066]

I have an electric blanket and it helps a lot with staying warm. Auto shut off at 2 hours.

[@chicosmummy]

Sorry forgot to add, here in Scotland there's people that work for the council that do an energy advice where they come and assess your home and tell you how to make savings and if yoir entitled to it you can get things like your loft insulated, new window seals etc etc. Might be worth seeing if you have something similar there.

[@Angie-fe8yd]

@chicosmummy do you know the name or contact for these and do they help people in private rented property in Scotland, thankyou 🙂

[@chicosmummy]

@@Angie-fe8yd yes they help all types of home

[@chrysalis4126]

My energy bill for 5 january to 5 Feb was £102.20. I live alone in a small two bed flat and am very careful with the heating. I don't heat the bedrooms, I have an electric blanket instead as they are cheap to use, put on half an hour before I get in bed and it is nice and toasty. I also invested in thermals - long sleeve tops and layer up with a thin jumper then a chunky jumper and thick thermal socks and leggings.

[@ChristineSilburn]

Sean that bill seems astronomical to me , I have a smart metre and have gas fired central heating cook on electric, my bill is just under £100 per month. I pay by direct debit , so its swings and roundabouts in the summer I build up credit to cover the extra in the winter. Im with E On Next, I would seriously consider changing provider. Hope this helps. Chris

[@ChristineSilburn]

I live on my own and have the heating on in the evenings I have a little fake woodburner that is electric that warms the sitting room up very quickly. I use a shower. . You didnt mention what provider your with?@@fedupbin

[@grunt22]

I'm on my own in a South Wales terraced house and my Direct Debit (smart meter) per month is £149. I'm with Octopus

[@seanjamescameron]

Someone else has told he to go to that provider.

[@phillipcarter8045]

They have their hands everywhere 🐙

[@briggle4982]

I have/had octopus for a rental property (tenants might have switched by now, not sure, but if they leave I'd use octopus for it again). They are very easy to contact. Better than eon who I use on my own house. I may swap eventually myself.

[@clarewild5196]

With Octopus. £150 per month for a 2 bed flat. All electric no gas. Seems excessive to me almost £300. It is hard paying bills alone however find £150 reasonable in the present climate of high energy prices.

[@JamesBrown-lc4fw]

I use that in my veg soup, just a small handful in the pot, that’s all you need, no need to steep it. Careful cos the pearl barley tends to stick onto the bottom of the pan

[@LandGirlGB]

Watching you from Georgia USA! Wales is absolutely beautiful was born and bred in England myself! Wishing you good luck and happiness in your new home!

[@kathypearson6886]

For comparison in Ontario Canada I pay $120 for gas (equal monthly billing), $119.40 for electricity and $70 for water/sewage. We pay less for electricity if we use it at off peak times (after 7 pm and weekends) I’d check with your utility providers for their suggestions on using wisely. I suspect the electric heater draws a lot but you thought you might do a test on some of the usages.

[@rassman48]

Top tip: I follow a chef called Jean-Pierre, on youtube. He is very good at teaching cooking because he did it for a living. He says when ever you get any died food, don't replace the missing water with water because it weakens flavour, instead always rehydrate in something nice, like a stock or wine etc. Your soup mix I thought was crying out for some stock, I would say wine too but I can never decide which wines I am supposed to use.

[@susanclive5568]

The soup mix is to use as an additional to your meat and veg in normal soup just thickens it up and adds the dried ingredients to make a good soup base. Saves having to buy the dried peas, lentils, barley that would fill your store cupboard and still be sitting there years later.

[@Teakai8]

My Nana and Mother always used that dry soup mix as an additive/ filler to soup. I'm in Australia and that electric bill sounds high - and I think Australian electricity bills are high.

[@michellemorrison6945]

Hi there, remember to add onions, carrots,leek,ect to the soup mix when u go to cook it .plus u can freeze Ur veg if u have any leftovers xx

[@theresevh]

It's crazy how expensive utilities are.... I wish solar was more affordable! But it isn't, and it's complicated and needs tending. My utilities here in Vancouver, BC, Canada is around 120/month - heat, hot water, electricity. I have an electric range I barely use. I use my air fryer. The hot water tank is new but no difference in the bill which is dismaying. I would like to retire but I cannot afford to. Having said all that, your cottage is lovely, and it's still new. I hope the expense levels out for you!

[@zeballos5757]

I live in the Greater Vancouver area too. In a condo. Heat and hot water is included, but electric bill is separate and only about $25 a month. When I lived in a house years ago, hydro was about $200 a month in the winter. £288 is a lot, that’s almost $600 a month here. Yikes!

[@barbaracarter6726]

I add some cubed ham or bacon to the soup along with some chopped carrots, onions and whatever else veg you have. Soup is a good thing to have going in the winter! We have to refrigerate our eggs since they are washed by the time they get to us and then are not stable at room temperature. I envy you that bacon!

[@fionadesciscio1799]

We refused a smart meter because we want to be in control of our metre readings. We pay as you go and our bill for gas and electric is £474, that will be at its peak . That's wiltshire by the way. We need a smaller home 😊

[@marypiper8161]

Ouch that's high

[@fionadesciscio1799]

​@@46joewhys that then , we pay for what we use, is it a higher tariff.

[@DiSWRwow77]

​@@fionadesciscio1799the companies give discount to direct debit payments as its easier to manage the seasonal differences over a 12 month period and they know payment is coming in (unless there's some big issue where u don't pay but I've not had a direct debit issue in 25 years).

[@carolineowen7846]

​@@fionadesciscio1799 Yes payg or pre-pay meter, has the most expensive tarrifs, for both standing charge and kWHr usage.

[@caravb5906]

I started by looking at the overall cost for the year. You moved at the most expensive time of the year for heating and warmth. Cost it up because if we get a good spring, summer and autumn you are only going to feel the pinch in winter for three months. Translate that to twelve weeks and it isn't as bad. Don't pay into any of their schemes. Put the money aside and just pay bills as they come in. Shower every other day. Wash on alternative days by boiling a kettle and adding that to the sink water. If you are up early make a flask of coffee, tea or soup to use during the day and have a sandwich lunch and Crockpot meal in the evening. This will save on fuel. Find activities that warm you up, walking, gym, swimming and take your shower at the gym. Food wise, you have that in hand. Lots of people batch cook and freeze in portions to reheat. Actually i think you are doing all the right things. Dry clothes on a line outside. Heating in the evening, throws, hot water bottles, snuddies, socks and whatever else keeps you warm. Small plug in radiator for bedroom. Just heat the room you are in. Learn to knit and crochet, read, watch utube or tv or whatever hobbie you have. Bed early. You will be fine xxx

[@paulsnowdon5210]

I recall hearing you say you'd been shopping in Waitrose! You need to stop doing that, they are probably the most expensive supermarket. Aldi and Lidl are far cheaper, though of course you may not have those in your area.

[@seanjamescameron]

From my experience the veg and fruit from those two places rot within days, sometimes within 24 hrs of buying it!

[@moreynolds9870]

Hi Sean, I too suffer with CFS and Fybromyalgia. I understand what it’s like not to have the energy to stand and cook and the physical pain that goes with it. As regards your soup, you would be better buying some dried lentil and fresh carrots for carrot and lentil soup. Cook the carrots and lentils together, I never soak them. Add what ever herbs/spices you like. When cooked blitz it to the consistency you prefer. Done. Try and cook enough for 6 portions. Then freeze portions in freezer for when you get a flare up. If you would like to know things I do to make like easier when cooking for CFS please ask.). Another easy and cheap soup idea. Buy bag of frozen mixed veg. Cook the whole lot with spices etc. Blitz and it’s done. Take care x

[@deborahclarke6700]

Don’t give up on the soup mix. I use it as a base and as carrots onion swede and anything else that needs using. Soak it over night and wash as you did then add it to the veg with a stock cube and cook like a stew. Better than tinned processed soup. 😊.

[@deborahclarke6700]

Add

[@mikeembe1261]

I'd use it as a filler for "Scotch Broth".

[@davidjohn4326]

I live in Florida , 3000 sq foot living space, with a pool and 5 ton air-conditioner... and my electric bill is $64.00 for the month.. In the summer my bill with air-conditioner running 24 hrs a day about $125.00 a month..

[@JanetJames-dw6xo]

Sean you do love a cup of tea, lol. I think your bill was quite high.

[@Blaze23557]

You can buy bacon & gammon off cuts in Tesco,Lidl and home bargains for a quid or so.

[@susanross1651]

My combined utility bill for January in a small two bed semi was £130. But in all honesty I’m very mean with the heating & rarely ever set it above 17 degrees, I usually get dressed & then put my dressing gown over the top. I batch cook on a regular basis, usually doing about four portions, great with things like stews, soups, curries & chilli con carne. I have a slow cooker for batch cooking. I used to put my central heating on more often & at 20 degrees, but with the exorbitant prices now I’ve had to cut down to keep my monthly payments the same at £100. I use them soup mixes but I usually just throw it in with stews & stuff to bulk them out.

[@lat1419]

The "soup mix" is supposed to be uses to add to stews and soups made with vegetables and / or meat. The soaking, rinsing, washing and boiling is to get the various grains ready to use in other recipes. If it is to be used as a soup alone (hard times!) a stock cube should be added for the final cooking, I like ham stock. If you're making smaller meals for a 1 person home, portion the remaining soaked "soup mix" and freeze it. I found using about a yoghurt pot worth enough to bulk up a soup for 2 of us. I do like pearl barley in casseroles and stews, which I wash, boil for 25 minutes and rinse before adding to the main pot. No presoaking needed for lentils at all.

[@susanmatthews7761]

I just add it whatever I am making in my slow cooker, no messing around - I don’t think I have ever rinsed boiled simmered before adding my soup mix to anything.

[@martinchamberlain8517]

Sean, the reasons why your gas bill l is high could be miners cottages usually have solid stone walls they have poor insulation compared to a modern house. They take a long time to warm up especially if the house was empty for some time before you moved in. We had a cold spell for two weeks with sub zero temperatures. This is similar with my 1907 semi but in the last few weeks as its been milder heating costs have reduced by 50%.

[@allansnow4628]

I find by doubling of tripling curtains helps; Windows are known for drafts and low r values.

[@sharonbaines6791]

You making that soup gave me a good laugh. Cost of living soup. Lol. You add it to any soups that your making. I actually got that same craft box myself before Christmas. Took one look at it and put it away to give to a friend for her birthday.

[@lisafrench9642]

Just subscribed and am really enjoying your channel. I am so similar to you, living alone at fifty in the Welsh valleys that your channel really is a treat to watch. It’s so strange seeing the places I know so well like Ponty online, it’s so enjoyable! I live in a modern flat, but you make me want to move to a cottage!

[@jamesknightreading]

Sean, if you get light in the tape end sensor, the VHS machine thinks it's at the end of the tape. Put the lid back on! :)

[@BsktImp]

I am one of the "heating or eating" brigade so my January energy bill (all elec) was under £50 with nearly a third of that being from the standing charge alone! Between 9th & 16th January indoor temperatures were colder than the fridge, below 8°C.

[@BsktImp]

@@londonlivin3901 Cheers. You too mate!

[@jenniferdodds3980]

As Felicity noted those types of soup mix are to add to soups - veggie/scotch broth and the like, a sort of 'filler' to thicken a soup and make it go further. There's a pasta shape called 'risone' very like rice grains and that's great added to any home made soups, just add a handfull (1/4 or 1/2 cup) at the end of cooking, give it a stir, pop on the lid, turn off the heat and the risone will cook in the heat of the soup. I never put on my oven without I have something else cooking on every shelf, a crumble will last several days apple or rhubarb, also scones, 8ozs of SR flour will give you 6-8 scones depending on size. If you're interested I can send you an easy recipe for bran rolls- uses all bran type cereal, no fats required. Best to be as organised as you can Sean. My electric bills have increased here in Aus in the last few months even though I'm using the same amount of electric, love Jenny

[@michaelsoftbinbows2223]

Its cheaper to buy whole chicken, portion it, freeze it , from bones you can make nice soup with little carrot, onion etc. and also freeze it in small bags for days to come.

[@cherylprice1790]

I think you're supposed to add the soup mix to other veg. Goodness that is expensive to cook for an hour. The weather is always wet in wales during winter now but it will balance out as the summers are usually boiling. We are paying monthly and phone up and request credits to be refunded during warmer months.

[@dianemcclure2334]

That soup mix is used as a filler in a casserole x Put in the slow cooker with other veg and some cut up meat .. chicken or lamb would be lovely .. leave over night or all day. Uses small amount of electricity and tastes wonderful x I read I bought a mountain MANY years ago xx Good reading .

[@edesouza2279]

The real cause of the high heating costs in the UK is the houses are poorly insulated walls, windows and doors; they are not well suited for the winter weather. Imagine if the UK had the same winter temperatures as we do in Canada. I have a two storey house, my gas bill for January was $55.00 and my electricity bill was higher than normal, @$101.00. My average electricity is normally about $66.00. I am retired so I spend a fair amount of my time at home and I keep my thermostat at 21c or 70F 24/7. Sorry mate, I feel your pain.

[@annamasocha4344]

I can't be the only one that wants to see Sean build that greenhouse, you could build a bit every week Sean and show us your progress.

[@sarahstrong7174]

Heating is very expensive. I ration myself to a few hours a day. I keep a hot water bottle or two in my bed so that it is always warm. I dress with lots of layers & wear a fleece gilet while doing jobs around the house. When I stop for a rest I pop back into bed for half an hour, relax & get thoroughly warm before starting the next job.

[@burntcrumpets5616]

Hello Sean. You electric is far lower than mine. I'm in the SW. EDF. I only have leccy in my 1 bed cottage. Bill has just increased from £212 a month to roughly £225. Its crippling!

[@hitchjack]

We used £400 in gas and electric in Jan, that’s a 4 bed house with 2 adults and 2 kids. Your price doesn’t sound too bad for a winter month. Check the temperature your hot water is heating to, if it comes out boiling out the tap you can turn it down a bit. Do you have a hot water tank or a combi boiler? , and check you haven’t got an immersion heater left on by accident if you do have a tank.

[@seanjamescameron]

I’ve just turned it down.

[@robertross8565]

Boil water in a kettle not on the hob. More efficient. V

[@chadcooper4033]

So sorry ,- I had chronic fatigue syndrome when younger for 10 years or more. Have fibromyalgia now and very bad arthritis. I know how you feel it's horrible. Hope you take meds to get you through. I hope you feel better. Cold weather is bad for this too as you probably know. Rain is so bad too. I live in desert area Southern California it helps we don't get too much rain . Take care, soup sounds great! Just started looking at your videos now. M.C.😊

[@Divinemessages69]

I've had a smart meter installed a year ago and now I can see what I am paying for my gas and electric each day. When I didn't have one, I used to get 'estimated' bills' and I got in a lot of debt a few years ago with Together Energy. Now with British Gas and they are a lot better!

[@collin6238]

If send in meter readings your bill wont be estimated

[@maxinedyer8368]

I totally agree that Octopus is the best supplier by far. They were the only company to operate by just covering their costs when the cost of living crisis was at it’s worst and all the other companies were regularly putting their prices up. They have great customer service too. I live in a one bed flat (large rooms) and have both gas and electric and keep my thermostat at 20 degrees during the day and then turn it down to 15 degrees at night and when I go out. My bills in the winter months are around £110 per month although I do have the benefit of the other flats in the block most likely having their heating on too. I also invested in a Lakeland heated faux fur throw which costs about 2p an hour to run. When I’m watching telly I can snuggle under it. It can also be used as an over-blanket on the bed. Not cheap (about £100) but I’ve had it for 10 years now and it hasn’t missed a beat. I also have a smart meter which I’m very happy with.

[@yvonnebailey24]

Sean that does sound expensive but mines about the same in Cornwall.That soup stuff you bought is the sort of thing i sling in a stew in a slow cooker to add some bulk.Also you will save money if you get an air fryer and don't use your oven.

[@ThecovertCustomer]

I’m in a tiny 2 bed rental. Double glazed but old property so it’s cold most of the time. Bills are horrific.

[@poppystravels4233]

I’m all electric and my bill was 200 last month, shocking. I’m with EDF…. 🙈🙈

[@chippyminton8711]

We use soup mix often through the winter months, we soak it overnight and make the soup/stew the following day, there is another one similar to that called winter mix which is pulses,lentils, pearl barley mix. soaked overnight and they expand quite a bit. Usually add something like chicken drumsticks or thighs, add additional peppers and onions or leek. Makes a great meal for a few days

[@chippyminton8711]

We have a slow cooker Sean, once soaked you can add all the ingredients to the slow cooker and forget about it, when you get home your meal is ready, that's what we do.

[@user-zw3gu7mz2p]

Bit pricey that pal turn some of your radiators of if your not using the room you should have a room thermostat turn it down to 18c change your light bulbs to lower wattage have you got a fireplace in your house if so get it going you got a lot of coal lieing about there or install a log burner pick up wood on your walks keep your doors closed there are loads of things you can do to get that bill down

[@Simon-ry1lw]

That's about right, Im at around £200 for gas and electric for January but in the summer it might be well below half that amount. Over the year it seems to average out at £105 month 🤷

[@bettygraham818]

Someone else commented that you were using the solid hot plate to boil water at first. It’s a shame you don’t have a gas cooker. It’s much cheaper to cook with gas. 9:05

[@frugalj1743]

Hi Sean, your energy bill relies on so many variables, the electric seems ok but the gas is high, things you can try to reduce it, set thermostat to 19 for heating, turn water temperature on the boiler down a bit, test the water is hot but not scorching, make sure you have no obvious droughts, if so cover or block them. Thick lined curtains on every window annd external doors for the winter. No deep baths, quick shower instead, layer clothing, thermals, long sleeved t shirt,and a jumper,gilet for round the house, if you feel chilly put your big fleecy poncho on before flicking the heating on, sometimes this is enough, socks and slippers. Turn the valves on each individual radiator down in rooms you don’t sit in, invest in a heated blanket for when you are sitting reading or kipping on the sofa. I’m on my own in a cold draughty house and it is miserable and expensive in winter and it really doesn’t help when people in highly insulated new builds brag about how low their bills are 😞, I hope these things help, stay warm and remember spring is not far away x

[@frugalj1743]

Draughts not droughts 😂😂