Top Ways to Save Energy

Around the HomeTaking steps to live “greener”, more environmentally-friendly lives is something we can all do. A few simple and

straightforward changes can go a long way towards reducing the amount of energy we use, reducing our carbon

footprints, conserving resources and reducing our utility bills.

But with all the talk, not to mention government policy and regulation, surrounding saving energy it can be difficult

to know where to begin.

The BasicsSome of the most effective ways to save energy around the home are

also the simplest.

We all know that turning lights off when leaving a room and not leaving

the tap running while brushing our teeth should be habits we don’t

even have to think about. But do you realise that all those gadgets we

own are sapping electricity even when not in use? Leaving chargers

plugged in and TVs and computers on standby takes up power, so switch

them off at the plug when they’re not needed.

By now most homeowners use energy-saving bulbs, which do not use as

much electricity and last much longer than standard bulbs, but go

round all your rooms and double-check that this is true in your home.

When it comes to the chores, turn the temperature down on the

washing machine and try to use the tumble dryer less often. Pick your detergents and

washing soaps carefully so that you can use less each time.

And don’t forget to check that thermostat. Lowering the temperature by one degree

won’t make much difference to the warmth in your home, but it can make a big

difference to your bills over the year.

Home ImprovementsThe next step to really ramp-up the energy efficiency of your home is to

make some bigger improvements and update the structure of the building.

Wall cavity and loft insulation are two of the key things. The initial outlay

can be costly, but over the years you will save that money, and more,

through lower heating bills. There are government grants available to help

fund such projects so it might not cost as much as you think.

It is also worth considering more hi-tech options such as solar panels on

your roof, rainwater harvesting and

underfloor heating. All these systems can have huge benefits, helping us to

use less energy, make the most of renewable sources and save money.

One option that is becoming more popular is an electric powered central

heating system. They use highly efficient electric heaters to give accurate

temperature control and help homeowners reduce dependence on

traditional gas-fired heating. Check out the options at

www.electricradiatorsdirect.co.uk.

Remember: Turn it off when

not in use. This applies to

lights, taps, gadgets and

heating.

Did you know: There are grants

and loans available for

energy-efficiency projects such as

insulation and solar panels.

Contact the Energy Saving Trust for

details of the financial support

that is available.

Energy-Efficient AppliancesMany home appliances now come with energy ratings. You will find

stickers on new washing machines, fridges and freezers that detail how

much electricity they use. Those with an A rating are the most

efficient, so when the time comes to replace your white goods keep an

eye out for this information.