There are many ways in which you can use energy more efficiently and save money at the same time. The following energy saving tips will help you reduce your fuel bills at little or no cost.
No Cost Tips Curtains•
At night, pull the curtains to stop heat being lost through the windows
•
Take care not to drape curtains over radiators as this will funnel heat straight out of the windows
Our interactive house could help you save energy and money in your home
Heating•
Turning the thermostat down by just 1°C can cut as much as 10% off your heating bills
•
You can also save on running costs by heating your home for an hour less each day
•
Never cover the air flow vents on electric heaters
•
Remember not to set the thermostat too high on your water heater; 60°C/140°F is usually adequate for bathing and washing
•
Use a shower if you have one and you'll save time, money and water
•
Remember to put the plug in your basin or sink - leaving hot water taps running is both wasteful and expensive
•
If you have a dripping tap ensure it is repaired quickly. In just one week, you could waste enough hot water to fill a bath
Consider using rain barrels to conserve water and for use in your garden. You can purchase them or make your own (we get them from a local Vlasic Pickle factory &
they include nice lids too). To make your own, visit this free site:
http://www.naturalrainwater.com/make_rainbarrel.htm
• Remember to turn off lights when you leave a room for long periods
Television and stereo
• Switch off your TV, video and stereo at the set. Standby can use as much as 10%-60% of the electricity that would be used by the device if it was switched on.
Fridges and Freezers
•
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 freezer away from cookers or heaters
• Where possible wait until you have a full load before using your washing machine
Dishwashers
• If you have a dishwasher use the low-temperature programme unless you have very dirty dishes
Cooking
Here are some ways to save energy when you cook:
•
Use the right size pan for the food and cooker hob
•
Keep saucepan lids on - this enables you to turn down the heat
•
Don't use more water than you need
•
Use a kettle to boil water for cooking
•
Use a toaster rather than the grill to make toast
•
Avoid over-filling the kettle for just one drink but be sure to cover the element
• Use low energy light bulbs wherever you can as they use less than a quarter of the electricity used by ordinary light bulbs and can last up to 15 times longer!
Hot water cylinder jacket
•
Putting a lagging jacket around your hot water tank and insulating hot water pipes can pay for itself in a few months and go on saving you money for years to come
•
Always choose a British Standard jacket
• Put draught strips around windows and outside doors and fit a flap across the letter-box
Safety First!
Gas, oil and solid fuel appliances need fresh air to function properly and safely. So if you are using such appliances NEVER block off ventilation in the rooms they are in!