Energy saving tips
Use the following tips
to help save the planet and to save you some cash.
No-cost energy saving tips
- Pull the curtains at dusk to keep the warmth in.
- Adjust curtains or blinds during the day to let in as much
light as possible.
- Don’t over fill kettles - put in only as much water as you
need.
- Put lids on saucepans.
- Choose the right size pan for the food and the cooker.
- Turn off the lights when you leave the room.
- Always put the plug in your basin or skin. Don’t leave hot
water running.
- Don’t leave appliances on standby.
- Don’t leave the fridge door open for longer than
necessary.
- Fix leaking taps. In just one day a dripping hot water tap can
waste energy and enough water to fill a bath.
- Try turning the central heating room thermostat down by 1°C.
This could cut your heating bills by up to 10 per cent.
- If you can’t use a half-load or economy setting, always wash a
full load in your washing machine.
- Use a 30°C programme on your washing machine. Most fabrics can
be cleaned at this temperature.
- Don’t put really wet clothes in the tumble dryer. Wring or spin
them first.
Low-cost energy saving tips
- Use low-energy light bulbs where you can, especially in rooms
where you leave lights on for longer periods.
- Eliminate draughts around external doors. Fix a brush or PVC
seal around doors.
- Make sure the hot water cylinder has a properly fitted jacket.
The British Standard is at least 75mm (3") thick.
- Ensure the hot water pipes are insulated to stop heat
escaping.
- Fit a nylon brush seal or spring flap to letter boxes and put a
cover on the keyhole.
- Fill gaps in floorboards and under the skirting board by using
newspaper, beading, or sealant.
- If you don’t have central heating, make sure your heaters are
the right size for your rooms. If possible, choose a heater with a
thermostat.
Choosing new appliances
When buying new appliances choose the most efficient product you
can afford. Check their energy ratings. A-rated is the most
efficient and G-rated is the least.