We’re all looking for innovative and easy ways to save money, especially in our homes. It’s often the little things that get overlooked, so we’ve outlined our top tips for keeping energy costs down without the hassle.
Large loads at low temp
Doing one full load of washing per week, at a lower temperature, can save you money over the year. Small changes like this add up and even if you don’t notice an instant saving, you will in the long-run. Washing at a lower temperature is still an effective and an efficient way of cleaning your clothes.
Limit shower time
We know it can be hard to pull yourself out of that warm flow of water on a cold winter’s morning, but simply reducing the time spent in the shower can save energy. Try to limit showers to a ten minute slot; you could even set a timer so you don’t get carried away! To help make small changes, you can check whether you qualify for these free water saving products, including a four minute shower timer.
Always turn lights off when you leave a room
This is particularly important for larger families, especially with young children. Without realising it, you can find yourself with increasing energy bills because lights are being left on in rooms that aren’t being used. If you are someone who likes lights to be on when you return to an empty home, don’t leave them on all day. Instead, pick up an electric timer so you can schedule when you want the lights to turn on. This is ideal for security.
Don’t be a drip
A running tap wastes more than six litres of water a minute; consider turning it off while you brush your teeth. Save on your water bills further by simply turning your taps off properly. Dripping water can add up throughout the year, accumulating on your bill.
Defrost your fridge and freezer
Removing excess ice from inside your fridge and freezer allows the appliances work more efficiently. Ice takes up room in your fridge/freezer, making it less productive, thus increasing your energy bills.
Quality fabrics
Investing in a good pair of thermal curtains can assist in saving you money on your energy costs. The material further insulates your windows, keeping heat in and blocking out any cold air.
Insulation
If you are a home owner, evaluate your insulation situation and upgrade your standard double glazing in your home to the latest energy saving glass. You don’t need to replace the frames; just the glass. There are many other ways you can effectively insulate your house including:
- Loft / attic insulation
- Cavity wall insulation
- Insulating tanks, pipes and radiators
- Filling in gaps in floorboards
Repair double glazing
Broken double glazing panels can lose precious heat from your home. Ensure they are in full working order and fixed properly by the professionals. If you notice they have clouded up or look like they have moisture between the panels, contact your local Cloudy2Clear branch for a free quote.
Don’t overfill the kettle
We can all be guilty of filling the kettle to the brim, only to make one cup of tea for ourselves. Save energy by only using what you need. You can even purchase kettles that are specifically designed to boil for one brew, such as this Russell-Hobbs one, which boils a cup of water in 45 seconds!
Switch off and save
We often don’t realise that appliances such as televisions, stereos, and microwaves still use energy when left on standby. Simply unplug them when not in use to help keep energy costs down. Unplugging your phone / tablet chargers can also save energy too.
Switch your energy provider
Many people could save on average around £200 per year by switching their energy provider. Use websites such as:
However, check with your current company on cancellation fees, as you don’t want to be hit with any unforeseen charges.
Ditch the draughty doors
A simple, but effective way of keeping heat in your home is to invest in draught excluders. These are relatively cheap, but are a great way to lessen those pesky draughts from gaps under doors.
Turn your heating down by just a couple of degrees
UK winters can often be harsh and temperatures can drop dramatically over night. This causes many of us to crank the thermostat up, pumping high levels of heat throughout our homes. However, a simple way of reducing your energy output is to turn the temperature down by just a couple of degrees. You won’t feel a difference, but your pocket might. On average, turning it down by just one degree can cut heating bills by 10 percent.
If you’re looking for more hints and tips on how to save energy, check out the Energy Saving Trust today and for more information on saving energy in your home by fixing your double glazing, contact Cloudy2Clear today or call 0800 302 9355 to find your nearest branch.
