Get energy smart this summer to save money
The current warm weather may mean that energy use is the last thing on your mind.
But actually the summer is just the right time to start thinking about your energy use over the next few months.
We know that for many people, the huge increase in energy bills is already making life incredibly tough. What’s more, energy bills are set to rise even more in October. Estimates suggest that a typical bill could be more than £3200 a year and the New Year could see another hike.
But there is help at hand.
We’re partnering with Act On Energy – an energy advice charity with more than 20 years’ experience -– to help people across Warwickshire plan to keep warm and well this winter.
Act on Energy can offer expert advice on:
- Energy efficiency tips to reduce your bills
- Grants and funding for energy efficiency measures
- Grants for replacement heating systems
- Help with fuel bills and energy debt
- Billing issues with your supplier
The advice is free – simply call on 0800 988 2881 or check out the website: Act On Energy
Some funding schemes require certain criteria to be met – but others don’t, so it’s well worth giving them a call now to see how they can help you. Don’t leave it until the after the summer and the autumn price rises to seek help.
Here are some quick tips that you can do around the home to help save energy. The more you save – the less you’ll pay. It’s a good idea to get into the habit now over the summer while energy bills tend to be at their lowest.
Our top 10 tips – get into the habit now!
- Turn your thermostat down by 1 degree. Most people won’t notice the difference – and an extra jumper can always help. The ideal room temperature is 18-21 degrees. Do it now before you need to switch the heating on! This could save you up to 10% a year on your bill.
- And while we’re on heating….set your timer to come on 15-30 minutes before you need it and switch off 30 minutes before you leave or go to bed.
- Switch to low energy lightbulbs. Yes, we know people have been banging on about this for years, but it really does work. LEDs use about 90% less energy than standard bulbs. They are more expense to buy – but last up to 12 times longer.
- Wash your clothes on the lowest heat setting. 90% of a washing machine’s energy is used to heat up the water. And dry them on a line – tumble driers use a lot of energy.
- Insulate a hot water tank – it will pay for itself within 6 months.
- Reduce your shower time – it’s easy to lose track of time so try setting an alarm for 3-4 minutes.
- Thick curtains help to keep the heat in. Keep them tucked behind radiators and pull them at dusk to avoid heat escaping through glass.
- Draught proof your home – check doors, letterboxes, windows, loft hatches and floorboards. Move furniture away from radiators to let warm air circulate. Keeping the heat in is key – a third of heat can be lost through the walls so think about cavity wall and loft insulation. There may be grants available our team of experts can advise.
- Be savvy in the kitchen – only boil the amount of water you need when you need it. Keep a lid on it – trap the heat in your saucepan. Use the dishwasher only when it’s full. Turn the oven off a few minutes’ earlier and use residual heat to finish cooking. Defrost your fridge and freezer regularly for maximum efficiency (and while we’ve got you…keeping a fridge or freezer door open for just a minute means it’ll take three minutes to cool down again).
- And finally, contact us for free on 0800 988 2881. Our energy experts are waiting to help.