Quick tricks to save energy at home
So many parts of the home can have a direct impact on your energy use and, potentially, your electricity and household bills. Fortunately, these same areas offer some great opportunities to save energy as well, with plenty of easy things you can do to use your energy smarter – and maybe also cut costs at the same time.
Energy can be one of the home’s most costly expenses. But, there are some clever ways to cut your bill with these smart energy-saving solutions.
Tips for saving energy with lighting
Choose LED light
The latest LED light bulbs are more energy efficient and longer lasting than ever – which means you don’t need to change them so often.
Trigger light – when you need it
A motion sensor turns your light sources on automatically when there's movement – providing light when you need it, and not when you don’t.
Lower energy use with dimmers and timers
You can use smart products like dimmers, timers and motion sensors to adjust the lighting level or turn lights off at certain times of the day.
Tips for saving energy with appliances
Turn it all off with a single switch
A multi-socket can be used to turn multiple power sources on or off with a single switch. It means appliances don’t stay on standby and drain energy needlessly.
Air dry your washing
Hanging clothes out to dry, on a rack or hanging dryer, is an energy-efficient alternative to a tumble dryer. It's also a great way to keep semi-clean clothes fresh, as well as reducing wear and tear.
Sit pots and pans right and keep them tight
Cooking food in a pot or pan? Make sure it's the same size as the hob – and put a lid on it! Not only does a lid help to cook food more quickly, but it also requires a lower heat setting on the hob.
Only run the dishwasher when it’s fully loaded
A dishwasher can be a great way to get all those dirty dishes clean while you do something else. To make sure you use water and energy in the best way, remember to only run the dishwasher when fully loaded.
Tips for saving energy with cooling and heating
Insulate your windows
Combining thick curtains, curtain liners and insulating blinds – and drawing them at the right time of day – can help to regulate room temperature. Keeping out draughts in the winter and heat in the summer.
Insulate your floors
Floors can lose heat and let in cold air – especially bare ones. Put down rugs for extra insulation that warms the room and your toes. The thicker the rug, the better.
Layer up when temperatures go down
Throw a blanket around you while relaxing at home. Toss a throw on your bed for added cosiness at night. When you curl up in warmth, do it without touching the thermostat.
Go green when it’s hot
Plants are one of the most natural ways to reduce sun exposure, absorb heat, and help regulate humidity. Try placing them in and around the walls most exposed to the sun.
