Saving energy is something we can all be doing now!
Not only does this demonstrate a level of contribution but it can save the average household money.
Keep heat in….
If you have curtains, drawing them will help to keep heat in the room. (Remember to try and drape the curtains behind the radiator to reduce heat loss through any window)
Opening doors and windows to cool a room down may cause and extreme temperature change and cause the heating appliance to respond. Instead turn down the heating.
Heating….
By turning the thermostat down just 1°C you can cut as much as 10% off your heating bill.
The more control you take of your heating the more money you save.
Fitting reflective foil behind your radiators, ensuring the shiny side is facing the radiator will help to keep the heat indoors. Such a simple task can cost very little and will take just a few minutes to do.
Water & Hot Water….
Remember not to set the thermostat too high on your water heater. 60°C /140f is usually high enough.
Try to avoid leaving hot water taps running, it is expensive and wasteful, remember to use the plug in your sink
Use a shower if you have one as opposed to a bath. You’ll save water, time and money. Remember, power showers use more water.
If you have a dripping tap make sure it is repaired quickly. In just one day a dripping tap can waste enough hot water to fill a bath.
Lights….
A common waste of energy is leaving lights on when leaving a room. Remember to turn the lights off.
Use low energy light bulbs wherever you can. They use a quarter of the electricity used by an ordinary light bulb and can last 15 times longer. Many supermarkets have money saving promotions.
Dishwashers & Washing Machines….
Use low temperature or economy programmes
Where possible, wait until you have a full load before using your appliance.
Cooking….
Use the right size pan for the food and cooker hob.
Keep saucepan lids on, then you can turn down the heat.
Don’t use more water than you need.
Use a kettle to boil water for cooking.
Avoid over filling the kettle for just one drink – but make sure you cover the element.
Using a microwave uses less energy than a conventional oven.
Cleaning Up….
Remember, most modern washing powders work just as well at low temperatures.
Where possible, dry clothes on a line or a clothes airer rather than using a tumble dryer.
Plan your ironing so that clothes which need lower temperatures are ironed first.
Home Entertainment….
Do not use the standby mode for long periods.
Switch off your television, DVD or video and hi-fi using the on/off button. It’s a simple way to save energy.
If you have a home computer, always remember to switch it off when it’s not in use.
Do not leave your mobile phone or other device on charge unnecessarily and unplug the adaptor when not in use.
Fridges….
Defrost fridges and freezers regularly to keep them running efficiently.
Don’t put hot or warm food straight into the fridge, let it cool down first.
Where possible, position your fridge or freezers away from cookers or heaters.
Did you know!
Leaving your television on standby uses 85% of the energy it uses when it is switched on.
Purchasing new appliances….
Many appliances must have an energy efficiency label when they are displayed for sale, hire or hire purchase. If you are thinking about buying a new appliance it is worth checking the energy efficiency label. (Ask for in-store assistance)
The label includes a coloured rating bar chart ‘A to G’ to show the energy efficiency of that product.
‘A’ rated products are the most efficient and ‘G’ rated products are the least efficient.
The label also shows the estimated average amount of energy the appliance uses in kilowatt hours and other useful information.
Home Improvements….
Effective loft and wall insulation can reduce heat loss by 45%.
Fitting 250mm of loft insulation can save £100 compared to no insulation and can save £100 compared to no insulation and can save you 25% of your heating costs. Loft insulation works because heat rises.
Cavity wall insulation will reduce your annual fuel bill by £70 - £100 and reduce heat loss by 30%, making your home feel much warmer.
Double glazing can cut fuel bills by £40 a year and can reduce heat loss through windows by 50% in addition to reducing noise, condensation and drafts.
Stopping drafts in your home can save £10 - £15 per year. Drafts often make people feel colder than they are and result in the heating being turned up.
Insulating your hot water tank with a thick insulating jacket can cut its heat loss by up to 75%. Adding to, or replacing a worn jacket can also save you money.
Contact your local Energy Saving Trust advice centre on 0800 512 012.
You may be entitled to grant funding to help you towards saving energy.