Energy Saving Tips for the Cost-of-Living Crisis
With energy prices reaching record levels and causing a significant impact on people’s finances, households nationwide are looking for simple, yet effective, ways to reduce their energy consumption, which also has a positive effect on the environment.
At Gatehouse Bank, we have committed to a Net Zero Home Finance target by 2050 and are eager to share our tips on how small changes can help to save money.
Energy saving tips
In a typical household, over half of fuel bills are spent on heating and hot water. Opting for an efficient heating system – such as heat pumps, electric heating, or solar water heating – could reduce fuel bills as well as carbon emissions.
Similarly, home appliances such as fridges, dishwashers, and washing machines can be extremely energy draining. These types of appliances are tested based on how much energy they consume, and subsequently given a rating between A (or for those using an older scale, A++++) and G, with A being the most energy efficient, and G being the least. When choosing a new appliance, opting for a high energy efficiency rating with cost households much less in the long run.
Opt for a laptop over a desktop computer
Laptops typically consume 65% less electricity over a year than desktop PCs. Opting for a laptop and avoiding leaving it on standby mode could save up to £45 per year, and a corresponding 25kg of CO2 emissions.
Choose the right television
TVs can be the most power-hungry of all entertainment equipment, particularly for those with large televisions.
Don’t leave appliances on standby
The average UK household spends £65 a year through appliances left on standby, equating to 40kg of CO2 emissions. This is particularly the case in the kitchen, where electronic appliances such as dishwashers, microwaves, washing machines, and electric ovens, should be turned off when not in use.
Save energy when cooking
Microwaves are far more energy efficient than cooking on a traditional gas or electric hob, particularly when heating up small quantities of food.
When boiling water in a kettle, only use as much water as needed, as boiling extra consumes more energy.
Electric hobs can be turned off a few minutes before food is fully cooked, as they will remain hot and continue to cook the food for this time.
Replace your shower head
Shower heads that take hot water directly from a boiler or water tank use more energy than electric showers. Switching to a water-efficient shower head will reduce hot water usage and save a decent sum of money.
Switch to LEDs
Using LED spotlights or compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) can also reduce electricity bills as they use far less electricity than standard bulbs. Although replacing all the bulbs in a typical household with LEDs would cost around £100, it is a good long-term investment that could save households around £35 per year.
Re-think laundry methods
Washing clothes at lower temperatures can help lower energy usage. Some washing machines also have a half-load option for smaller quantities of clothes.
Make use of the HACKS Calculator
For more tips on energy saving this winter, the Heating and Cooling Know-how and Solution (HACKS) calculator is a useful tool in reviewing and suggesting energy efficient tips for individual households.
References:
https://www.forbes.com/uk/advisor/energy/energy-saving-tips/