5 tips to save energy in cold winter months
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Tip 1 – Keep heating under control – room thermostat
Installing a room thermostat, timer and thermostatic radiator valves will save energy and money. This means you can programme the timer to switch your heating on before you get up or before you come home, which saves more energy compared with turning your thermostat up to warm your house up quickly. Individual thermostat valves on your radiators can also give you control over which rooms you want to heat, and what temperature you want to heat them to. It’s also a good idea to remove air from the radiators regularly, as trapped air in radiators can make them cooler and less effective.
Tip 2 – Turn your thermostat down or keep an eye on the temperature
Reducing your room temperature by just 1°C could cut your heating bills by up to 8%. Keep an eye on the temperature to ensure that you are comfortable and, if you need to turn it up, do so one degree at a time.
Tip 3 – Find and seal leaks
Cold air can leak into the home through minor cracks and gaps in windows and doorways. Seal any gaps with caulk or weather-stripping to keep the heat in.
Tip 4 – Be on standby for standby
Did you know that a lot of electrical appliances continue using energy even when you’re not using them?! Televisions, chargers, broadband routers, stereos, hair dryers, game boxes (such as xboxes) are all extra power-hungry appliances. Also don’t leave your mobile phone on charge all night! Charging won’t need that long.
Tip 5 – Wash your clothes at 30°C – saving energy and water
Unless you have a specific reason for doing so, washing your clothes at a high temperature isn’t usually necessary these days, as most laundry detergents are designed to work effectively at 30ºC. Making sure your washing machine is fully loaded each time you use it can help save both electricity and water. You can also apply the same principle to your tumble dryer and dishwasher. Similarly, only fill your kettle with as much water as you need before switching it on.