With energy prices continuing to rise and climate change of increasing concern, we look at how you can reduce your gas and electricity consumption this winter.
There are considerable savings to be made when it comes to energy beyond simply switching to a cheaper provider. Our tips will help you consume less to save money and minimise environmental impact.
Insulation and draught-proofing
The best way to reduce energy consumption is to prevent heat loss. Loft insulation at the correct depth of 270mm (for glass wool) makes a real difference when it comes to conserving warmth.
Draught proofing is a cheap way to keep a room snug even on the windiest days. As well as windows, think about blocking up other gaps including doors, loft hatches, letterboxes and floor and skirting boards. Thick, lined curtains are a great help too, including across front doors.
Energy use
Use the heat you’re paying for as efficiently as possible. Turn heating right down in rooms that aren’t in use and consider a smart thermostat that you can control remotely so that if you’re out longer than expected you can turn off your heating via your phone. Move furniture away from radiators to allow warmth to circulate more freely. Try and get used to a slightly lower temperature if you can. Every degree cooler results in a financial saving.
Whether your water comes from a hot water tank or directly from you boiler, try turning the temperature down, although you need to be aware of the safety implications if your hot water is standing in a tank and don’t go below 60ºC.
Use the most energy-efficient heating method
If your boiler needs replacing, choose the most energy-efficient model available for long-term savings. Try and avoid expensive single electric heaters, which can use up to three times the amount of electricity to produce the same heat as an efficient central heating system.
Double glazing
Good quality double glazing will keep heat inside and prevent draughts from entering a property. The Energy Saving Trust has estimated that double glazing could save £115 per year in energy costs. It will also make your property more attractive when you come to sell it.
Bleeding radiators
Radiators that have air trapped in them will fail to heat up properly all over and this could lead you to turn up the heating to try and compensate, leaving other radiators hotter than they need to be. To keep the whole system at an even temperature, bleed any radiators that have cold patches.
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