Energy saving tips
Here are some simple measures you can put into action today:
- Switch off the computer and TV set. If left on stand-by with the red light on it uses up to 25% of the power
- Turning your thermostat down 1 c could cut your heating bills by up to 10% and save you around £30 per year.
- Take a shower instead of a bath. It uses less than half the hot water and can save £5 - £10 a year
- Install low energy bulbs in lights that are left on for more than three hours a day
- Wait until you have a full load before using your washing machine
- Only boil as much water as you need (but remember to cover the elements if you are using an electric kettle).
- Draw the curtains in the evenings when it's cold and the heating is on
- Lag your hot water tank
- Fit draught proofing to windows and doors
- Place the fridge or freezer in a cool place (away from direct sunlight and other heat sources ) – the appliances will not need to work so hard
Did You Know?
Insulation
- Did you know that more than 40% of the heat lost from an average house is through loft spaces and walls?
- By insulating these areas not only can you reduce your fuel bills, you can also make your home warmer
- By installing loft insulation to a depth of at least 250 mm (10") you could save up to 25% of your heating costs
- If your home is un-insulated, your walls are responsible for as much as 33% of all your lost heat
- Insulating cavity walls provides one of the biggest energy savings in the home, reducing heat loss through the wall by up to 60%
Heating
- Upgrading your gas central heating could save you up to 40% on your heating bills (based on a 3 bed semi detached house)
- Replacing a 15 year old boiler could save you over 20% on your fuel bills or 32% if a condensing boiler is installed
- By upgrading heating controls you will improve the efficiency of your heating system and can cut heating costs by up to 17%
- By fitting a full controls package you could save £50- £60 per year
Information provided by Energy Saving Trust


