Energy Saving Tips

There are many ways in which you can use energy more efficiently and save money at the same time. EDF Energy have put together the following energy saving tips that will help you reduce your fuel bills at little or no cost.

TIPS AT NO COST

Curtains

• At night, pull the curtains to stop heat being lost through the windows

• Take care not to drape curtains over radiators as this will funnel heat straight out of the windows

Heating

• Turning the thermostat down by just 1°C can cut as much as 10% off your heating bills

• You can also save on running costs by heating your home for an hour less each day

• Never cover the air flow vents on electric heaters

Water

• Remember not to set the thermostat too high on your water heater; 60°C/140°F is usually adequate for bathing and washing

• Use a shower if you have one and you'll save time, money and water

• Remember to put the plug in your basin or sink - leaving hot water taps running is both wasteful and expensive

• If you have a dripping tap ensure it is repaired quickly. In just one day, you could waste enough hot water to fill a bath

Lights

• Remember to turn off lights when you leave a room for long periods

Television and Hi-Fi

• Switch off your TV, video and Hi-Fi at the set. Standby can use as much as 10%-60% of the electricity that would be used by the device if it was switched on.

Fridges and Freezers

• Defrost fridges and freezers regularly to keep them running efficiently

• Don't put hot or warm food straight into the fridge - let it cool down first

• Where possible, position your fridge or freezer away from cookers or heaters

Washing machines

• Where possible wait until you have a full load before using your washing machine

• Alternatively, use the half-load or economy programme if your machine has one

• Remember: modern washing detergents work just as well at low temperatures

Dishwashers

• If you have a dishwasher use the low-temperature program unless you have very dirty dishes

Cooking

Here are some ways to save energy when you cook:

• Use the right size pan for the food and cooker hob

• Keep saucepan lids on - this enables you to turn down the heat

• Don't use more water than you need

• Use a kettle to boil water for cooking

• Use a toaster rather than the grill to make toast

• Avoid over-filling the kettle for just one drink but be sure to cover the element

TIPS WITH LITTLE COST

Low energy light bulbs

• Use low energy light bulbs wherever you can as they use less than a quarter of the electricity used by ordinary light bulbs and can last up to 15 times longer!

Hot water cylinder jacket

• Putting a lagging jacket around your hot water tank and insulating hot water pipes can pay for itself in a few months and go on saving you money for years to come

Always choose a British Standard jacket

Draft Proofing

• Put draught strips around windows and outside doors and fit a flap across the letter-box

Safety First! Gas, oil and solid fuel appliances need fresh air to function properly and safely. So if you are using such appliances NEVER block off ventilation in the rooms they are in!

The following tips cost more, but they'll help you save more too:

Loft insulation

If you are prepared to invest more in making your home energy efficient, lost insulation can help you reduce your fuel bills significantly. Up to 25% of heat loss occurs through lofts which are not insulated! So although this is not a low cost option, it will soon pay for itself in lower energy bills, therefore it makes economic sense. A minimum thickness of 250mm glass fibre or mineral wool is recommended.

Cavity wall insulation

Insulation can be put into cavity walls and can save up to 35% of heat loss through walls, but this work should always be carried out by a qualified installer. If you live in rented accommodation, you should get your landlord's permission before you start the work.