It’s Big Energy Saving Week!
We are here to help you cut your energy bills with some quick but effective lifestyle tips that will significantly impact your energy usage over time.
Save energy doing laundry
The washing machine is one of the most heavily used appliances in the home. A 7kg washing machine used 4 times a week will cost typically between £25 – £35 a year to run. Cut down your costs with these simple tips.
1. Wash your clothes on a cooler wash, you can also buy bio laundry capsules/ detergent which are better at breaking down the dirt and stains on your clothes as they contain enzymes that can be activated at a lower temperature. Do bear in mind that they are harsher to your skin compared to non-bio detergents.
2. Hang out your clothes to air dry instead of using the tumble dryer, in the summer hang them on a washing line and in the winter hang them indoors infront of a radiator – don’t forget to ventilate the space to avoid damp.
Save energy in the kitchen
1. Switch your appliances off at the plug instead of leaving them on standby, doing this can save the average household around £30 a year.
2. Only boil as much water as you need and do not boil using a pan on the hob, your kettle is much more efficient.
3. Choose energy efficient appliances, the highest rating is A+++ and the lowest is F or G. Older appliances are likely to be less efficient and can negatively impact your energy consumption in the kitchen.
Save energy in the bathroom
1. Cut down on your time in the shower. Spending one minute less in the shower each day could save a family of four £75 a year on energy and water bills.
2. Upgrade your shower by replacing an inefficient shower head with a water efficient one. This could save a family of four around £70 a year on their gas bills and around £115 a year on their water bills.
3. Turn off the tap whilst you brush your teeth and wash your face – doing so can save more than six litres of water per minute.
Save energy on lighting
1. Turn your lights off when you’re not using them. If you switch a light off for just a few seconds, you will save more energy than it takes for the light to start up again.
2. Replace your bulbs when you can with energy efficient ones – on average it could save you about £35 a year on your energy bill.
3. Install dimmer switches. They can also extend the life of your light bulb.
Energy help schemes
Make sure to visit your local Citizens Advice office to get advice on how to reduce your energy bills. If anyone in your household is receiving benefits, contact your energy supplier and see what support they can provide.
