Some simple things to help reduce energy waste:
- Check that your loft is properly insulated. Installing loft insulation to a depth of at least 15cm will help save around 20% of your heating costs, but if possible add insulation to a depth of at least 25cm for even greater savings.
- Draught-proof your windows and doors. 20% of heat can be lost through draughty, badly-fitting doors and windows.
- Close your curtains at dusk to stop heat escaping through the windows.
- Always remember to turn off lights when you leave a room.
- When you are not using your TV, switch it off at the set rather than leaving it on stand-by.
- Close the fridge door as quickly as possbile. Don’t leave it lying open!
- Avoid putting hot or warm food straight into the fridge; allow it to cool down first.
- Always wait until you have a full load before using your washing machine.
- Try to use the low-temperature programme on your washing machine, unless you have really dirty clothes to wash.
- Switch off the tap when you’re brushing your teeth. Sounds simple but it saves a lot of water.
- Take showers instead of baths. Showers use a lot less water so will save energy and therefore money.
- Fit energy efficient light-bulbs. These use about a quarter of the electricity of standard bulbs and last up to eight times longer.
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