Think about it: on average, people save £523 on car, £222 on home, and a whopping £671 on van Insurance. That’s a lot of extra money you could spend on, well… literally anything else!
Your car’s more than just a machine – it’s your partner in crime for those road trips, morning commutes, and late-night snack runs. Your home is your safe space, where life happens – from TV marathons to epic pancake breakfasts. Protect it without draining your bank account.
Get a quote with One Call Compare, where you can:
- Save Time & Money to spend on more exciting things in life.
- Coverage for everything from Cars to Homes, Motorbikes to Ford Transits?
- Excellent customer service with one Call Brands
- Quote Quick & Easy without the hassle of shopping around
Why One Call Compare?
Sure, there are loads of comparison sites out there. So what makes One Call Compare different?
- Ridiculously Easy: No complicated forms or hours spent searching – just one call (literally) to get started.
- Real Savings: We’re talking hundreds of pounds back in your pocket, not pennies.
- All in One Place: Car? Tick. Van? Tick. Home? Tick. Bike? Tick. Compare them all without breaking a sweat.
- We Keep It Real: No hidden fees, no confusing jargon. Just straight-up quotes that make sense.
- Tell Us About You: Fill in a quick form – no fluff, just the basics.
- Check Out Your Options: Instantly compare quotes from the UK’s top insurers.
- Pick Your Policy: Found the one? Lock it in and enjoy the savings!
How It Works (Spoiler: It’s Super Simple)
You’ll go from “Ugh, I have to sort out my insurance” to “Wow, that was actually kinda easy” in no time.
What are you waiting for? Click to get a quote now!
*Savings figures can be found here.
]]>However, as with any major home improvement, installing solar panels can impact your home insurance policy.
In this blog, we’ll explore the relationship between solar panels and home insurance, and how you can ensure your investment is fully protected.
The Benefits of Solar Panels
Before diving into the insurance details, let’s quickly recap the benefits of installing solar panels:
- Energy Savings: Solar panels can drastically reduce your electricity bills. Once installed, they harness sunlight to generate electricity, which can power your home and potentially lead to a surplus that can be sold back to the grid.
- Increased Property Value: Homes equipped with solar panels are often valued higher on the property market. Buyers are increasingly attracted to homes that offer sustainability and lower energy costs.
- Environmental Impact: Solar energy is a clean, renewable source of power. By using solar panels, you’re contributing to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.
- Government Incentives: In the UK, homeowners can benefit from schemes like the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG), where you can earn money for the surplus energy your system generates and exports back to the grid.
How Solar Panels Affect Your Home Insurance
When you invest in solar panels, it’s important to consider how they will affect your home insurance policy. Here are the key points to consider:
- Increase in Property Value: Since solar panels can increase your home’s value, you may need to increase your home insurance coverage to reflect this higher value. Failing to do so might mean that your home is underinsured.
- Protection Against Damage: Solar panels, like any part of your home, are susceptible to damage from weather events like storms, hail, and even accidental damage. Most standard home insurance policies should cover solar panels under the building’s insurance, but it’s essential to check with your provider. If your panels are not covered, you may need to add extra coverage or a specific endorsement to your policy.
- Theft: Solar panels are a significant investment, and unfortunately, they can attract thieves. It’s important to confirm that your home insurance policy covers theft of solar panels.
- Installation and Maintenance: If your solar panels are installed incorrectly or maintained poorly, your insurance may not cover damages resulting from these issues. Always use a reputable installer, like our trusted partner GEP Solutions, who can ensure your panels are installed to the highest standards.
Partnering with Green Energy Power Solutions
Choosing the right partner for your solar panel installation is crucial. That’s why we recommend GEP Solutions, a leading provider of solar energy solutions in the UK. GEP Solutions offers a comprehensive service, from initial consultation to installation and maintenance, ensuring that your solar panels perform efficiently and reliably for years to come.
GEP Solutions is known for their high-quality workmanship and customer service, making them a trusted choice for homeowners looking to invest in solar energy. By partnering with them, you’re not just investing in solar panels, but in peace of mind, knowing your installation is handled by experts.
Tips for Updating Your Home Insurance
- Notify Your Insurer: After installing solar panels, contact your insurance provider to update them on the new addition. Provide details of the installation, including the cost and the name of the installer (e.g., GEP Solutions).
- Review Your Coverage: Make sure your policy limits are sufficient to cover the increased value of your home and the cost of the solar panels. Consider adding additional coverage if necessary.
- Check for Discounts: Some insurance providers offer discounts for homes with solar panels due to their environmental benefits and the increased property value. It’s worth asking your provider if you’re eligible for any such discounts.
Conclusion
Solar panels are a smart investment for any homeowner looking to reduce energy costs and contribute to a greener future. However, it’s important to ensure that your home insurance policy is updated to reflect this valuable addition to your property. By working with a reputable installer like GEP Solutions and maintaining proper insurance coverage, you can enjoy the benefits of solar energy with complete peace of mind.
For more information on solar panel installation and to get a quote, visit Green Energy Power Solutions today.
]]>Summer is upon us, and with it comes the festival season in the UK, promising vibrant music, lively crowds, and unforgettable experiences. However, amidst the excitement, it’s crucial not to overlook the safety of your gadgets. Whether it’s your smartphone capturing those Instagram-worthy moments, your tablet for those moments of downtime, or your portable speakers keeping the party going, insuring your gadgets should be a top priority. Here’s why:
Protect Your Investment
Festival tickets, travel, and accommodations can already make a dent in your wallet. Adding the cost of replacing a lost or damaged gadget can turn an enjoyable experience into a financial burden. Gadget insurance provides a safety net, ensuring that you won’t have to bear the full cost of replacements or repairs.
Coverage for Common Festival Risks
Festivals are bustling environments where accidents are prone to happen. The chances of dropping your phone, having your tablet accidentally soaked in a sudden rain shower, or losing your portable speaker in the crowd are significantly higher. Gadget insurance typically covers these mishaps, giving you peace of mind to enjoy the festival without constant worry about your tech.
Quick Replacement
Being without your smartphone or tablet can be inconvenient, especially during a festival. Many gadget insurance plans offer quick replacement services, meaning you can get back to capturing memories and staying connected with friends and family in no time.
Protection Against Theft
Unfortunately, theft is a real risk at large events. With so many people in close quarters, it’s easy for gadgets to be stolen. Insurance can cover the cost of a stolen device, allowing you to focus on enjoying the music and festivities rather than dealing with the aftermath of theft.
Peace of Mind
Perhaps the most significant benefit of insuring your gadgets is the peace of mind it brings. Knowing that your valuable electronics are protected allows you to fully immerse yourself in the festival experience, capturing every moment and dancing to every beat without hesitation.
How to Choose the Right Gadget Insurance
Understand the Coverage: Ensure the policy covers common festival risks such as accidental damage, theft, and water damage.
Check the Claim Process: Look for policies that offer quick and straightforward claim processes, ideally with 24/7 support.
Evaluate the Cost: Compare different insurance plans to find one that offers the best coverage at a reasonable price.
Read Reviews: Research customer reviews to gauge the reliability and customer service quality of the insurance provider.
Conclusion
As you gear up for the festival season, don’t let the excitement overshadow the importance of protecting your gadgets. Insuring your devices not only safeguards your investment but also ensures that nothing can spoil your festival fun. With the right insurance, you can focus on enjoying the music, friends, and unforgettable moments that make summer festivals in the UK truly spectacular.
]]>In this guide tailored for UK car insurance customers, we’ll delve into everything you need to know about driving abroad, including the importance of EU breakdown cover.
Understanding Your Insurance Coverage
Before hitting the international roads, it’s essential to review your car insurance policy to understand the extent of your coverage abroad. While most comprehensive policies include a basic level of cover for driving within the European Union (EU), additional protection may be necessary for comprehensive peace of mind.
Importance of EU Breakdown Cover
One crucial aspect of driving abroad you should consider is EU breakdown cover. This optional add-on offers invaluable assistance in case of vehicle breakdowns while traveling in Europe. From mechanical failures to flat tires and lost keys, ERS EU breakdown cover ensures that you’re never stranded on unfamiliar roads.
You can check your breakdown or upgrade the cover in the Customer Portal.
Additional Tips for Driving Abroad
In addition to securing EU breakdown cover, here are some essential tips for a smooth and safe driving experience abroad:
- Research local driving laws and regulations in advance.
- Carry essential documents, including your driving licence, vehicle registration, and insurance certificate.
- Familiarise yourself with road signs, speed limits, and driving customs in your destination country.
- Prepare an emergency kit with essentials such as water, snacks, a first-aid kit, and emergency contact numbers.
Driving abroad offers endless opportunities for adventure and exploration, but it’s essential to be prepared for the unexpected. By investing in EU breakdown cover and following our expert tips, you can enjoy a worry-free road trip knowing that help is just a phone call away. Safe travels!
]]>After all, these are the things you live with day in, day out. You may be surprised to know that the average UK home has around £35,000 worth of contents, according to research by the Association of British Insurers in 2018[1].
One reason it’s important to know the value of what’s in your home is for buying contents insurance.
WHAT IS CONTENTS INSURANCE AND DO I NEED IT?
Contents insurance helps protect the possessions in your home. Depending on the policy you choose, you’ll normally be covered against theft, fire and flood[2].
Unlike buildings insurance, contents insurance isn’t a legal requirement. But without it, you wouldn’t be covered for the costs of replacing all your belongings if they are stolen or damaged, which could easily run into thousands of pounds.
WORKING OUT THE VALUE OF YOUR HOME CONTENTS FOR HOME INSURANCE
In order to get the right level of home contents insurance, you’ll first need to work out just how much your home contents are worth. But how can you do this accurately?
A rule of thumb is that if something isn’t part of the actual building, then you need to include it in your tally. So, it’s important to include things like curtains and furniture.
Before you take out a contents insurance policy, be sure you know exactly what it covers, as policies will differ in the level of protection offered. For example, not all policies cover the contents of your shed, garage or freezer[3].
The ABI[4]free apps that are available to help. Go through your home room-by-room, not forgetting items in attics, basements, sheds and garages, if they’re covered. You might not have receipts for most of your possessions, in which case you can use the internet to help you work out the cost of each item.sheds and garages, if they’re covered. You might not have receipts for most of your possessions, in which case you can use the internet to help you work out the cost of each item.
There are also item valuation tools available online, but these should only be used as a rough guide[4].
INSURE INDIVIDUAL ITEMS
Your home insurance policy will also have a single item limit, which is the maximum amount your insurer would pay out to replace a single item if you were to make a claim.
For example, if the single item limit is £1,500 and you have a necklace worth £2,500 stolen from your home, then your insurer may only pay out £1,500 if you make a claim[4].
So, it’s important to tell your insurer about any expensive items you own to make sure they are covered by your policy.
BE SURE TO INCLUDE ALL YOUR TECH
People’s homes are increasingly packed with internet-enabled devices. Back in 2018, YouGov’s Smart Homes 2018 Report showed that close to a quarter of Britons (23%) already owned at least one smart home device[5].
Apart from these smart home gadgets, how many other internet-enabled devices do you have in your home? Between your family members, you may have several valuable smartphones, tablets, laptops, smart speakers and gaming consoles. Some of these devices are becoming increasingly expensive and research by Uswitch has shown that the cost of top-end mobile phones has soared by 490% over the last 20 years[6].
Also, don’t forget to include any gadgets you have bought for your kids. According to YouGov[7], four in ten British children have their own tablet by age six, and this all adds up for your home contents tally.
REVIEW THE VALUE OF YOUR ITEMS
If you buy anything valuable after taking out your contents policy, you should contact your insurer to make sure your new purchases are covered.
The value of your home contents will continually change as you buy new things or if you receive expensive gifts, for example for your birthday or at Christmas.
Also, certain items such as jewellery, art or antiques may increase in value over time. So, make sure to regularly review the value of your possessions to make sure you’re covered.
DON’T BE UNDERINSURED
If you underestimate how much contents cover you need and something happens to any of the possessions in your home, you might be disappointed when you come to make a claim.
If you’ve said your possessions are worth less than their true value, then your insurer could pay out less when you make a claim. In some cases, an insurer may be able to void your policy entirely, meaning you’d receive no payment at all.
Research by the Association of British Insurers (ABI) has shown that one in five households could be underinsured because they did not know how much their home contents were worth[8].
So, take your time and value your possessions as accurately as you can. You may even be surprised and find some long-lost treasures in your home.
Original article written by Ageas
[1] https://insurance-edge.net/2018/02/22/abi-estimates-average-uk-home-has-35k-of-contents-often-under-insured/
[2] https://www.moneyadviceservice.org.uk/en/articles/do-you-need-contents-insurance
[3] https://www.moneysupermarket.com/home-insurance/average-clause/
[4] https://www.abi.org.uk/products-and-issues/choosing-the-right-insurance/home-insurance/home-contents-insurance/valuing-your-homes-contents/
[5] https://yougov.co.uk/topics/technology/articles-reports/2018/08/10/almost-quarter-britons-now-own-one-or-more-smart-h
[6] https://www.uswitch.com/mobiles/news/2020/07/mobile-phone-prices-soar-over-20-years/
[7] https://yougov.co.uk/topics/education/articles-reports/2020/03/13/what-age-do-kids-get-phones-tablet-laptops-
[8] https://www.abi.org.uk/globalassets/sitecore/files/documents/publications/public/migrated/home/is-your-home-underinsured.pdf
From electrics to cooking, house fires can start in many ways. Ageas have outlined the most common causes of house fires along with some tips to help you stay safe at home.
EASY AS HACK
Fire safety begins with fitting fire alarms at home. Test them weekly to make sure they work and ensure they’re on all levels of your house.
AT A GLANCE
- 152,608 fires occurred in 2022
- From faulty electrics to careless smoking, house fires can begin in many ways
- Here are the main causes and the action you can take to stay safe
WHAT ARE THE COMMON CAUSES OF HOUSE FIRES?
COOKING EQUIPMENT
How many times have you had an accident in the kitchen? Whether it’s dropping something on the floor or cutting your finger, a lot can happen when you’re distracted.
Did you know that toasters are a common cause of house fires? Avoid a build-up of crumbs and debris by cleaning it regularly. [2]
If you overheat pots and pans, or if you’ve got any combustibles e.g. oven mitts, dish towels, paper towels near heat sources, a fire could quickly occur. Remember to never put water on an oil fire, and be aware that if oil is being used, fire could spread quicker.
Action:
Always be mindful of what’s going on in the kitchen and don’t get distracted. Keep a fire blanket or suitable fire extinguisher available to use in the event of a fire. If you’re cooking with hot oil, take extra care and don’t leave hot pans unattended.
HEATING EQUIPMENT
According to the London Fire Brigade, electrical heaters are a common cause of house fires. [3]
Fires could start if you place bedding, blankets or clothes on, or near heaters. Some heaters can also present a carbon monoxide risk which could be fatal by causing drowsiness, as it could prevent waking up in the event of a fire.
Action:
Do not use heaters to dry shoes or clothes and keep portable heaters at least one metre away from clothing or furniture. Make sure all heaters are kept in good working order and fit a carbon monoxide alarm in rooms with solid fuel, gas or paraffin heaters.
ELECTRICAL APPLIANCES
Many of us are guilty of leaving electrical appliances on for long times or overusing an extension cord, but this could quickly cause a house fire. Did you know emptying the fluff out of your tumble drier filter regularly can also help prevent fires?
If you’re leaving appliances on charge for too long or using old or dated appliances – which may not be up to standard when it comes to wattage usage, material quality and safety regulations – a fire could occur.
Action:
Don’t overload electrical sockets. Use one plug for one socket. Don’t leave the TV or other electrical appliances on standby as this could cause a fire. Ideally, try to switch it them off and unplug when not in use.
CHRISTMAS TREES
We all love putting up a Christmas tree during the festive season, but you should know there comes a risk with it as well.
A dry Christmas tree is incredibly flammable. While an artificial trees made with vinyl or plastic needles could be safer, an electrical fire from a bad wire or an overloaded outlet is a risk.
Action:
If you’ve chosen a real tree, make sure it stays hydrated. When choosing trees, avoid any that may be too dry. And never leave Christmas tree lights plugged in when you’re not at home or are sleeping, no matter if the tree is natural or artificial.
CIGARETTES
If you’re a smoker, or live with a smoker, you should be aware of the risk of fallen cigarettes/embers. If not put out properly, a cigarette could cause fire.
Action:
Always make sure cigarettes are discarded in ashtrays and fully extinguished (a cigarette butt can smoulder for hours).
CHEMICALS
If chemicals come into direct contact with an open flame or heat source or combine with oxygen to produce enough heat for ignition, a fire will occur. [4]
Many common household chemicals, including gas are highly flammable. These should be stored in their original containers and always sealed properly.
Action:
Keep chemicals and petrol away from heat, electrical sources, furnaces, pilot lights and other chemicals with which they could cause flames, including grease. Also keep them out of arms reach if you have young children.
ELECTRIC SCOOTERS
Many people don’t realise that electric scooters can pose a fire hazard, especially during charging. Overcharging or using incompatible chargers or replacement batteries may lead to fires.
Action:
To stay safe, follow the instructions given by the scooter manufacturer when charging. Always use the chargers and batteries recommended for your scooter, don’t overcharge, and make sure to charge the scooter in a place with good airflow.
PREVENT HOUSE FIRES IN OTHER WAYS
There’s more you can do to prevent a house fire – the more action you take, the safer you’ll feel at home.
Fit a fire alarm – There are four main types of fire alarms. These include:
1. Ionization Smoke Alarms:
these alarms use ionization chambers and a small amount of radioactive material to detect smoke. They are best for detecting fast-burning, flaming fires with smaller smoke particles.
2. Photoelectric Smoke Alarms:
Photoelectric alarms use light and a sensor to detect smoke. These are particularly effective at sensing slow-burning fires with larger smoke particles.
3. Ionization and Photoelectric Combination Alarms:
These alarms combine both ionization and photoelectric technologies to provide comprehensive smoke detection. These alarms are designed to quickly respond to both fast-burning and smouldering fires.
4. Heat Alarms:
Heat alarms detect increases in temperature caused by fire. Hear alarms are most useful in areas where smoke detectors might produce false alarms, such as kitchens or garages.
Make sure you have a fire alarm fitted on all levels in the house. Test them regularly and make sure they’re free from dust.
Be safe with candles
If you’re lighting candles in the house, make sure you never leave them lit if you’re not in the room. Keep all candles in secure holders and on a surface that doesn’t burn. Don’t forget to keep them away from any materials that could easily burn.
Be mindful of kids
Make sure nothing dangerous falls into little hands. Keep matches, lighters and candles where children can’t see or reach them.
Have a fire escape plan
It never hurts to be prepared for an emergency. Come up with a fire escape plan and share it with your family so everyone knows what to do in case of a house fire. It’ll save you time and could help everyone stay calm in a crisis.
If a house fire does occur, you should get out straight away. If smoke, heat or flames stop you from doing so, stay in the room and immediately contact emergency services. If possible, place a wet towel under the door.
Original article written by Ageas
Sources
[1] https://www.thefpa.co.uk/news/home-office-releases-detailed-analysis-of-fires-attended-by-fire-and-rescue-services-in-england#:~:text=In summary, in the year,non-fire incidents 34%.
[2] https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/news/uk-news/homeowners-urged-to-clean-toasters-26335438
[3] https://www.london-fire.gov.uk/safety/the-home/portable-heaters-gas-fires-and-open-fires/
[4] https://www.forbes.com/home-improvement/home/house-fire-causes-and-prevention/
Here, Ageas run through the questions that matter so you can feel prepared for cleaner, greener travel.
EASY AS HACK
Rather than rush to buy a new electric car before the 2030 ban, wait to see the prices fall. The cost of electric cars is set to come down over time as batteries cost less to produce.
AT A GLANCE
- You won’t be able to buy a new petrol or diesel car from 2030, or a new hybrid car from 2035
- You’ll still be able to buy used petrol or diesel cars after 2030 and used hybrid cars after 2035
- Currently, there are no plans to stop car owners from driving petrol and diesel cars on public roads after 2030
WHAT DOES THE BAN ON PETROL AND DIESEL CARS MEAN?
The 2030 ban on petrol and diesel cars applies to the sale of new vehicles, rather than a total ban of petrol and diesel cars on the roads. In other words, you won’t be able to buy a new petrol or diesel car from 2030.
Although the rule comes into effect from 2030, it will probably become more difficult to find new petrol and diesel cars before then.
With the petrol and diesel ban looming, manufacturers and dealers are likely to concentrate on selling electric cars before the law changes.
WHY ARE PETROL AND DIESEL CARS BEING BANNED?
The Government introduced the 2030 ban as an ‘historic step’ to ending the UK’s contribution to climate change and believes it will help to improve air quality in towns and cities across the country [1].
Transport accounted for 25%[2] of the UK’s greenhouse gas emissions in 2021, with journeys made by road making up most of the pollution. Reducing emissions from exhausts in the short term, pretty much guarantees we can all breathe cleaner air, sooner rather than later.
HOW WILL THE PETROL AND DIESEL BAN AFFECT ME?
Other than clean the air that you breathe, the 2030 ban might mean that you buy an electric car sooner than you think.
Manufacturers are likely to build more electric cars and dealerships are more likely to push electric cars, the closer we get to the 2030 deadline. The Government has set a target of zero-emissions cars making up 22% of all new sales by 2024, 38% of sales by 2027 and 80% in 2030 [3].
| Year | Target | Year | Target |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 22% | 2030 | 80% |
| 2025 | 28% | 2031 | 84% |
| 2026 | 33% | 2032 | 88% |
| 2027 | 38% | 2033 | 92% |
| 2028 | 52% | 2034 | 96% |
| 2029 | 66% | 2035 | 100% |
The chances of finding a new petrol or diesel car will become slimmer over time and could mean you ‘go electric’ before the ban.
As of September 2023, electric cars are exempt from road tax. However, the exemption will end in April 2025 [4].
Whether the value of used petrol and diesel cars holds or falls, depends largely on the electric car situation. For example, if public charger availability isn’t met, it’s likely that nearly new petrol and diesel cars will be a popular choice and this will drive up resale costs.
Don’t miss: A beginner’s guide to electric cars
WILL HYBRID CARS BE BANNED TOO?
The sale of new hybrid cars will be banned from 2035 [5]. Like diesel and petrol cars, you’ll still be able to drive hybrid cars after the ban.
WILL I STILL BE ABLE TO BUY A PETROL OR DIESEL CAR AFTER 2030?
Yes. If you’re buying a petrol or diesel car registered before 2030, you’ll be fine.
WILL I STILL BE ABLE TO DRIVE A PETROL OR DIESEL CAR AFTER 2030?
Yes. There are no plans to ban petrol and diesel cars from being driven on public roads in the UK.
However, it’s worth keeping in mind that Clean Air Zones like those in London (ULEZ), Birmingham and Bristol, might be rolled out to more parts of the country and charge drivers for using petrol and diesel cars.
Check this out: Five of the best apps for electric car owners
IS THE PETROL AND DIESEL BAN GOING AHEAD?
Although the Prime Minister asked for ‘more flexibility’ in the planning of the 2030 deadline, Levelling-Up Secretary Michael Gove described the 2030 date as ‘immovable’ [6].
It looks like the 2030 ban is here to stay.
CAN I GET A GRANT TO BUY A NEW ELECTRIC CAR?
Only some types of electric vehicles are eligible for a government grant, including wheelchair accessible vehicles, motorcycles, mopeds, vans, trucks and taxis [7].
You might be able to get financial help towards installing an electric car charger in your home. Check the criteria for the EV chargepoint grant.
ARE THERE ENOUGH PUBLIC CHARGING POINTS?
The Government predicts that the UK needs 300,000 public electric car chargers by 2030 to keep up with demand [8]. According to Zapmap, at the end of July 2023, there were 45,737 available [9].
Let’s hope that installing an extra 250,000+ chargers in less than 7 years is possible.
Original article written by Ageas
Sources
[1] https://www.gov.uk/government/news/government-takes-historic-step-towards-net-zero-with-end-of-sale-of-new-petrol-and-diesel-cars-by-2030
[2] (p.65) https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/1147457/powering-up-britain-net-zero-growth-plan.pdf
[3] (p.22) https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/1154610/zev-mandate-co2-emissions-regulation-consultation-document.pdf
[4] https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/introduction-of-vehicle-excise-duty-for-zero-emission-cars-vans-and-motorcycles-from-2025/introduction-of-vehicle-excise-duty-for-zero-emission-cars-vans-and-motorcycles-from-2025
[5] https://www.gov.uk/government/news/government-takes-historic-step-towards-net-zero-with-end-of-sale-of-new-petrol-and-diesel-cars-by-2030
[6] https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/sunak-sticking-to-2030-ban-on-sales-of-new-petrol-cars-cjsf37kjt
[7] https://www.gov.uk/plug-in-vehicle-grants
[8] https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/1065576/taking-charge-the-electric-vehicle-infrastructure-strategy.pdf
[9] https://www.zap-map.com/ev-stats/how-many-charging-points
AGEAS’S EASY AS HACK
When driving on wet roads, take your time, leave a safe braking distance and forgo the fog lights.
AT A GLANCE
- Avoid driving in heavy rain if you can.
- It’s best not to use your fog lights as they can increase glare and make it harder to see.
- Learn how to avoid aquaplaning on flooded roads.
WHY IS DRIVING IN HEAVY RAIN DANGEROUS?
Driving in heavy rain on wet roads can be stressful and dangerous. It’s tiring to concentrate for long periods when visibility is reduced due to rain and spray from other cars – plus you need to factor in longer stopping distances. There’s also the risk of encountering deep puddles or even flooded roads.
If possible, try to reschedule your journey if the rain is pouring down. If you have no choice about driving in wet weather, make sure you’re as prepared as possible.
Don’t miss: Ageas’s 10 tips to prepare your car for the cold weather
BEFORE SETTING OUT ON A RAINY DRIVE
Allow plenty of time for your journey to ensure that you and your car are ready for the conditions ahead:
- Plan your route. Where possible, try and stick to main roads as they’re less likely to get flooded.
- Check your windscreen wipers and lights are working properly, your tyres are in good condition, and you have enough fuel. Bad conditions could make your journey longer.
- Remind yourself how to use your air conditioning and heater, so you can demist your car’s interior without getting distracted while driving.
- Make sure your mobile phone’s charged in case you break down or get stuck.
Check this out: How to stay safe driving on icy roads with Ageas
TIPS FOR DRIVING IN HEAVY RAIN
In wet conditions, you need to drive more carefully:
- Leave more space than usual between your vehicle and the one in front. Did you know that, in wet weather, stopping distances double to four seconds? Keeping your distance also helps to minimise spray hitting your windscreen and obscuring your vision.
- Turn on your headlights so other drivers can see you more easily.
- Don’t use your fog lights – road safety organisations warn that fog lights can mask your brake lights and dazzle other drivers in rainy conditions.
- Avoid splashing pedestrians and cyclists. It’s not very considerate and you can get landed with a fine.
DRIVING IF THE ROAD IS FLOODED
It only takes two feet of water for some vehicles to start to float, according to road safety charity Brake. If water is building up on the surface of the road, then drive with caution. You could damage your car, as well as putting yourself in danger.
Ageas’s Easy As tips for driving if the road is flooded:
- Never attempt to drive through fast-flowing water.
- If the water appears to be too deep – or you can’t know for sure – then find an alternative route.
- If the water is passable, keep your vehicle in a low gear and engine revs up as you drive through it.
- Don’t stop in standing water. If you think it’s shallow enough to drive through, wait for any vehicles coming the other way to pass.
- Avoid any submerged objects that could damage your car, such as branches.
- Once you’ve driven through the water, and are back onto a flat section of road, press your brakes gently to test them. This will also help them dry out.
Read this: Are car headlights too bright?
HOW TO AVOID AQUAPLANING
Driving through puddles or flood water can cause aquaplaning, also known as hydroplaning.
Aquaplaning is when water gets between your tyres and the road surface. The immediate loss of traction can make your car slide (also known as fishtailing) and make your steering feel light.
Aquaplaning can be a scary experience and can easily lead to an accident. Road safety charity Brake 1 found that 1 in 13 road crashes partly caused by slippery roads.
If your car starts aquaplaning, take your foot off the accelerator and don’t brake until you’ve regained control. To minimise the risks of aquaplaning in wet weather, make sure your tyres are in good condition and drive at a sensible speed.
Original article written by Ageas
AGEAS’S EASY AS HACK
If driving visibility is less than the length of a football pitch, it’s time to turn on your fog lights.
AT A GLANCE
1. Fog lights are generally only needed when it’s foggy
2. If used at other times, they can mask your brake lights. You could even get a £50 fine for using your fog lights in the wrong way
3. The purpose of fog lights is to help other drivers see you, not for you to see in the fog
WHEN DO YOU NEED YOUR FOG LIGHTS ON?
It’s not always clear when fog lights are needed. It all comes down to the difference between fog and mist, which is a bit of a murky area. The Met Office says:
• Foggy is when you can see less than 1,000 metres ahead
• Misty is when you can see further than 1,000 metres
But from a driver’s perspective, visibility distances are much smaller. In fact, you should turn your fog lights on when visibility dips to 100m (328 feet) or less. That’s roughly the length of a football pitch and means the fog is reasonably thick. You should also use your headlights too, but not your full beam.
DO ALL CARS HAVE FOG LIGHTS?
Yes. Rear fog lights are required by law on all cars in the UK. Front fog lights are more likely to be found as an extra on higher-spec models. Some newer cars have daytime running lights (DRLs) instead of fog lights. These are the bright LED lights you see on new cars, which are permanently on and designed to make the car more visible to other road users.
While it’s not a legal requirement to use your fog lights, if they’re needed it’s safer to switch them on. Their purpose is to help make your car visible to others, rather than enabling you to see further in the fog.
However, whether or not you turn on your fog lights, always make sure your headlights are on in poor conditions, as that is a legal requirement.
HOW TO USE FOG LIGHTS
If you aren’t sure how to turn your fog lights on or off, spend a few minutes getting to grips with them while your car is stationary. That way you won’t suddenly have to figure it out one bleak winter’s morning when you’re in a rush.
Fog lights are usually operated by a separate switch from the main light controls. Look for a dashboard light coming on to let you know the fog lights are on. If in doubt, check your car’s manual. And if your car has automatic lights, don’t assume your fog lights will come on automatically too.
Don’t miss: Ageas’s top tips for driving on icy roads
ARE THERE ANY OTHER REASONS TO USE MY FOG LIGHTS?
Fog lights are for reduced visibility on the road, so you can also use them if visibility is less than 100 metres due to rain, snow or hail.
Remember, fog lights are to help other road users see you, not the other way around. So you will also need your headlights on low when driving in fog.
WHEN SHOULD I TURN MY FOG LIGHTS OFF?
Lots of drivers keep their fog lights on even when conditions are clear. But did you know that misuse of fog lights can result in a fine of up to £50?
The Highway Code says: “You must not use front or rear fog lights unless visibility is seriously reduced as they dazzle other road users and can obscure your brake lights. You MUST switch them off when visibility improves”.
ANY OTHER TIPS FOR DRIVING ON FOGGY DAYS?
The first and most important thing you need to do, is learn where your fog lights are, and how to recognise that you have them turned on while driving. The fog lights sign is usually a depicted by an oval headlight image, with a wavy line with three diagonal lights cutting through it to symbolise blocked vision.
Here are some other tips for driving in fog:
• Pay attention to live traffic updates
• Check your mirrors and slow down before entering fog
• Maintain a good distance from the vehicle in front
• If you see a sign saying ‘fog’, but the road seems clear, be prepared for a foggy patch up ahead
• Wind your windows down at junctions and crossroads so you can hear approaching traffic
• Expect to encounter other drivers not using their fog lights
• Do not tailgate other drivers going slowly in fog
• If conditions are extreme, park safely and wait until the weather improves to continue your journey
And remember to switch off your fog lights when the fog clears.
Don’t miss: Ageas’s full list of winter car maintenance tips.
Original article written by Ageas
But you may be wondering, is it best putting the heating on for lower and longer? Or should you pump up the temperature in bursts?
This topic is a source of heated debate. But what do the experts say?
HEAT YOUR HOME IN BURSTS…
The Energy Saving Trust, an independent organisation that provides advice on energy use, is unequivocal on this point. It says that keeping your heating on all day uses more fuel and so is more costly[1].
Typically, the most energy-efficient approach is to use a timer to make sure your home is heated when you need it.
Ideally, if you have room thermostats or a smart heating system, then you can begin to really take control of your usage. Using a smart heating system means you can set rooms or areas to heat up at certain times, and to specific temperatures.
…OR KEEP YOUR HEATING ON LOW
On the other hand, some specialists argue that you should keep your boiler on a constant low setting, with your radiator valves on maximum[2]. This is to prevent condensation forming in the fabric of your walls, which happens if your radiator frequently flips from hot to cold.
Having condensation in the walls is inefficient in terms of heating. The reason is twofold. Firstly, when the heating is switched on, it uses energy to evaporate the moisture. Secondly, having moisture in the walls makes them less effective as insulation. This is because heat can pass through more easily (known as thermal conductivity), rather than being trapped.
SO, WHAT’S THE VERDICT?
The most accurate way to find out which approach works best for your home is to test it. If you have a smart meter, this will make the job easier.
You could spend one week having the heating on a constant low temperature, and the next heating the house in bursts. Obviously, the test will be fairer if the weather and outside temperature is more-or-less the same for both weeks. Take a meter reading at the beginning and end of each week and compare results. Then you’ll have a good idea which is the most energy-efficient approach for your home.
Whatever you decide to do, beware the risk of frozen pipes. If the outside temperature goes to 0°C or below, water in your pipes can freeze, which runs the risk of damaging them.
Read Ageas’ tips on how to reduce the risks of your pipes freezing and bursting this winter.
INSULATE TO STOP HEAT ESCAPING
To make the most of that precious warmth, you need to stop it escaping. One of the major factors affecting your heating costs is insulation, so it’s a good place to make any improvements you can. And if you’re thinking about selling your home, this is also among the most commonly recommended areas for improving your EPC rating.
If your home has a loft, about 25% of the heat will be lost through the roof. In a semi-detached house with an uninsulated loft, buying and installing insulation should cost you about £640 on average, according to the Energy Saving Trust[3]. This could lead to an annual saving of as much as £355 on your energy bills. In other words, it should pay for itself in less than two years. The insulation itself should last about 40 years, so this could be a great way to save money in the long-term, if you can afford the initial outlay.
You could also consider insulating the walls, if they aren’t already. For a cost of approximately £1,000, based on a semi-detached house, getting cavity wall insulation could reduce your bills by up to £395 a year [4]. If you have an older house with solid walls, getting them insulated could generate an annual saving of up to £540, but installation can be very expensive, at around £12,000 for external walls (5).
The government has recently announced the new ECO+ scheme [7] when grants made available from next April, designed to encourage home owners to improve energy efficiency.
USING ELECTRIC HEATING
You may not have a central heating system. For example, if you live in a flat, rented property, or home with no mains gas connection, you may have electric heating.
The most common type of electric heating is storage heaters. These are designed to be paired with electricity tariffs that typically supply electricity at cheaper rates overnight. Some are also fitted with convector heaters, which are intended to boost your heating; but the Energy Saving Trust advises against using these too often, as it’s normally cheaper to use the stored energy bought at cheaper rates overnight.
Other electric options, such as panel heaters and electric radiators, are often more expensive to use than central heating, but can be useful if you need to heat one room for a short time.
HEAT THE HUMAN, NOT THE HOME
Some great advice if you can’t afford to turn on the heating is to heat the human, not the home. This means keeping your and your loved ones at home warm, even if your property remains cold. It’s an idea that has been made popular by money saving expert Martin Lewis this winter. His tips to stay warm at a low cost include using:
- Hot water bottles – when you sit down, try sitting in a sleeping bag with a hot water bottle in there. Make sure you check it hasn’t expired first - see below.
- Electric blankets – and other plug-in options, like USB gloves, heated insoles or an electric heat pad.
- Slippers – particularly those that enclose your feet.
- Layered clothes - don’t forget your thermal socks too.
Did you know Hot water bottles have an expiry date?
Make sure you check yours is still safe to use. Here’s how:
- Every bottle has a daisy wheel symbol on the funnel, which signifies the manufacture date. It should feature a circular segment in the middle, surrounded by 12 sections, which represents the 12 months of the year.
- The visible number in the centre section of the daisy symbolises the year of production. If it says 22, the year of manufacture is 2022.
- There should be small dots in some segments; depending on which segment the dots end, it represents the month the hot water bottle was manufactured. If the dots are only on eight sections, it means that the bottle was made in August.
- The number of dots in each section signifies the exact week, so three dots means the third week of the month.” [8]
Original article written by Ageas
Visit the Ageas weather hub for tips and guides to help you protect your home before, during and after extreme weather.
[1] https://www.moneysavingexpert.com/utilities/energy-saving-myths
[2] http://www.askjeff.co.uk/jeffs-handy-tips-central-heating-effeciency/
[3] https://energysavingtrust.org.uk/advice/roof-and-loft-insulation/
[4] https://energysavingtrust.org.uk/advice/cavity-wall-insulation/
[5] https://energysavingtrust.org.uk/advice/solid-wall-insulation/
[6] https://sse.co.uk/help/water/plumbing/stopping-pipes-freezing
[7] https://www.gov.uk/government/news/government-joins-with-households-to-help-millions-reduce-their-energy-bills
[8] https://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2022/12/08/hot-water-bottles-have-an-expiry-date-heres-the-hidden-way-to-check/