How To Be More Energy Savvy!
Most of us are blind to the fact that some things we do every day and take no notice of are costing us hundreds of pounds every year.
Our homes are leaking energy! And with the winter season fast approaching we all want to keep warm, so what is the cheapest way of doing just that? Well luckily there are a number of things we can do to become energy efficient.
A vast amount of expensive heat escapes from our homes through the loft, walls, windows and doors. Great ways of preventing this is to insulate and check for any unwanted drafts coming from doors and windows.
Insulating your loft can be a tricky business, and a dangerous one too, we don't want any of you falling through your ceilings onto your kitchen table etc. now! So make sure you take all precautions when doing this.
Now you might be thinking this sounds like expensive work and what is the point? Well there are grants to help with the costs, you can speak to your energy supplier or the Energy Saving Trust on how to claim these grants, plus in the long run your bills will be cheaper.
There are a number of other small ways in which you can save energy and more importantly to your bank balance, save money.
Not leaving your mobile phone or laptop on charge when it doesn’t need to be for example, or leaving the TV or your PlayStation 3 on standby are all major ways in which electricity is used without us noticing.
Close the curtains at dusk to prevent heat loss, it’s a simple one but very effective.
Remember to always switch the light off when you leave the room and to use energy efficient light bulbs. Did you know that energy efficient light bulbs last ten times longer than ordinary bulbs, saving around 45 pounds over the lifetime of the bulb?
And did you know that a dripping hot water tap can waste enough water in a week to fill half a bath, so make sure all leaky taps are fixed and dripping ones are turned off!
Finally when doing the washing try to fill up the dishwasher, washing machine or tumble dryer. Two half loads uses more energy than one full load.
There are also different ways you can find out about potentially better energy deals:
- Talk to your supplier or view their website
- Use one of the approved online price comparison services listed on Consumer Focus’ website
- If you cannot access the internet you can call Consumer Direct on 08454 040506 for a pricing factsheet for your area or general advice
- Contact other energy suppliers to compare deals
Info Environment Energy Energy Conservation
IMAGE: Luminous Idea by Tiago Daniel
