Energy Efficiency Top 10 Tips

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Energy Efficiency Top 10 Tips

Independent research tells us that the average householder could save around £280 per year on its fuel bills. (Source Energy Saving Trust).

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1. Insulation

Nearly 50% of the heat in a typical home is lost through its walls and roof. Make sure these areas are insulated to the highest possible standard. You could save up to £100 per year on heating bills.

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2. Heating

Don't overheat your home, use your heating to reach the temperature you need and make sure you know how to use the controls properly. Turning the thermostat down by 1% can save up to 10% on fuel bills.

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3. Lighting

Replace ordinary light bulbs with energy saving ones. They use about 1/4 of the energy and last up to 15 times longer. They can save around £10 a year. Remember to turn lights off when leaving a room.

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4. Boiling water

Don't overfill the kettle for just one drink. An electric kettle is one of the biggest energy users in the home.

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5. Hot Water

Make sure your hot water tank is lagged with a suitable jacket. These can pay for themselves within a few months. Never have your thermostat set above 60C. Having a shower uses much less water than a bath.

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6. Washing

Wait until you have a full load before using the washing machine, or use the 1/2 load setting. Using the 40C cycle rather than the 60C cycle uses a 1/3 less electricity.

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7. Draught proofing

Fitting draught proofing to windows and doors can be relatively easy and cheap and can save up to £15 on annual fuel bills. Closing the curtains at dusk can stop heat escaping

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8. Windows

Consider fitting secondary or replacement glazing where appropriate. Double glazing can halve the heat lost through windows and save around £40 per year on fuel bills.

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9. Electrical Appliances

Don't leave appliances on stand by; they can still use up to 25% of the full amount of energy. This includes TVs, stereos, computers etc.

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10. Fridges and Freezers

Defrost fridges and freezers regularly. Don't leave the door open for longer than necessary and don't put hot or warm food straight into the fridge - allow it to cool down first.