We are all trying to save energy and keep costs down in these tough times.

You are probably aware of most of the energy saving strategies laid out below, but it doesn’t do any harm to have a look through and see if there are any other methods here to add to your energy-saving plan.

If there are any other tips we haven’t included that you are aware of, feel free to let us know and we will share them with everyone.

Top tips to save energy in your home

Heating

• Buy oil stamps throughout the year – check your supplier accepts them
• If you have a pay as you go gas or electricity meter, try to build up credit during times of lower use so you have a bit of a safety buffer when temperatures drop
• Set your heating to switch off 30 minutes before you leave your house
• Try not to overheat the room. Recommended temperatures are 21°C in the main living room and 18°C in other rooms. A 1°C decrease in room temperature can reduce your fuel bills by up to 10%.
• Make sure radiators are not obstructed by curtains or furniture
• Close your curtains at dusk, to retain the heat generated inside your room

Hot Water

• When using your kettle only boil as much water as you need
• Your cylinder thermostat should be set at 60°C
• A standard shower uses 60% less water than a bath
• If you live in a hard water area, lime scale can affect the efficiency of your kettle (treat with vinegar or descaling solutions)

Electrical Appliances

• Turn off lights when you leave the room and invest in low energy/LED bulbs (as well as being cheaper to run, they last 10 times longer)
• Turn off household appliances. Do not leave on standby as this still using electricity! e.g. TVs, DVD players, laptop and mobile phone chargers
• When using the washing machine, use low temperature settings and only when you have a full load
• When possible, dry clothes outside and NOT in the tumble dryer
• If drying clothes indoors, use a clothes horse/rail NOT radiators; and make sure the room is well ventilated
• Modern dishwashers use less energy and water than washing up by hand. Make sure there is a full load and choose the most economical setting for the type of dishes you are washing.
• When buying a new appliance, choose the most energy efficient. (A is the best G is the worst).

Cooking

• Use a pot/pan that is the size of the cooker ring – heat going up the sides of pots and pans is wasted
• Use lids on saucepans where possible, contents heat up faster
• Consider using slow cookers, air fryers, halogen ovens, pressure cookers or steamers, as they use less energy

Refrigeration

• Make sure the fridge/freezer door is firmly shut and avoid putting warm food straight into the fridge/freezer
• Defrost the freezer frequently; and try to avoid putting your fridge/freezer near heat generating appliances, such as the oven or boiler.