How To Make Your Home More Energy Efficient

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Energy efficiency isn’t just about saving the planet – which is a very hot topic. It’s also about saving money, which is an incredibly cool thing to do.

Creating a more energy efficient home is not that difficult, and the good news is, you don’t have to do it all at once. You can just make a few changes every now and then but still know you’re making a difference.

Here’s a few things you can try:

Switch off gadgets when not in use. Laptops, microwave oven displaying a digital clock, phone chargers, all use power even when they’re not in use.
Small changes will make a big difference when you calculate how much energy you’ve saved over a year.
Set your hot water to a lower temperature. Think about it – you run a bath or a sink of hot water and then add cold. It doesn’t make sense!
Adjust the thermostat by a few degrees and you’ll cut your energy bills.
Choose a lower washing machine setting. Most modern detergents now work brilliantly at 30°. Your clothes will benefit too and need less ironing.
Fit a water-saving shower head. It takes minutes. Screw the old one off, screw the new one on. You’ll cut back on the amount of water and energy you use.
Don’t boil a full kettle. If you’re only making one brew, just boil enough for a single cup. Freshly boiled water tastes so much nicer too!
Replace your lightbulbs. If you’re still using old-fashioned light bulbs, you’re burning far more electricity than you need to.
Invest in LED or Compact Fluorescent (CFL) bulbs. They’re slightly more expensive to buy but will last 12 times longer and use far less energy.
Insulate your home. Experts reckon we could all save at least £160 a year by not letting heat escape through roofs and walls. Start with the loft, and you’ll immediately notice the difference. Another great way of keeping heat in and draughts out is hanging thicker curtains at windows and doors.
Upgrade your boiler. A bit of an ask, but an inefficient boiler can add £200 a year to your energy bills. If yours is on its last legs and ready to be replaced, research the best energy-efficient boilers. Many energy suppliers offer great deals and discounts.
Consider getting an energy monitor. These little gizmos tell you how much energy you’re using and what it’s costing. They cost around £30 but experts reckon they’ll save you £100 in the first year. Some gas and electricity companies offer them for free.
Heating on, windows closed. So many people put the central heating on and then open a window ‘for a bit of fresh air’. If you’re one of them you may as well chuck your money out onto the street.
Collect rainwater. What better way to water your plants. Saves money and the hassle of getting the water guzzling hose out.
Use the washing line. Tumble dryers might leave your towels all fluffy, but experts reckon they add 67p to your electricity bill every time you turn it on. Ouch!
Switch off lights. Need we say more?