April Advice Column: ‘How can I use less energy and save money?’
I’m becoming more aware of how much energy our household gadgets and appliances use, and it’s making me think about our bills. Do you have any tips to help us cut down on energy use and save some money at home?
It’s completely normal to worry about rising energy bills. The good news is that adopting a few simple habits into your daily routine can make a real difference. Here are some practical tips to help you take control of your energy use and save money:
In the bathroom
Reducing the length of your shower time can help. Try reducing the water temperature of your shower too, as cooler showers use less energy.
Doing your washing
Using your washing machine’s ‘eco’ cycle takes longer, but uses less energy. For laundry that isn’t heavily soiled, use a cold cycle (20 or 30 degrees Celsius).
If possible, hanging your washing outside is an effective (and free) way to dry clothes – weather permitting! If not, using a heated clothes airer instead of a tumble dryer is a good option as they are cheaper to run.
In the kitchen
Air fryers, microwaves and slow cookers usually use less energy than an oven or hob.
Putting lids on pans while you’re cooking and using the right size pan for the amount of food you are preparing will use less energy heating it.
When you boil the kettle, measure out the water you need. Boiling water in the kettle before adding to the pan will also help your food cook more quickly meaning you use less energy.
Defrost your fridge or freezer once or twice a year and don’t hold the door open for extended periods of time – this will help use less energy to stay cold.
Your heating
Check the temperature on the thermostat – between 18 and 21 degrees Celsius is fine for most people.
Check your heating times – if you have a boiler, set the temperature two or three degrees lower, (or programme it to be off) when you’re out or asleep.
Check the thermostatic radiator valves – some have numbers on them. You can set each one to the lowest number that keeps the room comfortable. Set them to 3 or 4 for rooms you want warmer and 1 or 2 for rooms you want cooler.
Install radiator reflectors behind radiators on external walls if your house isn’t well insulated. These are easy to install even in rented homes, and will make rooms feel warmer.
Get local help
We can also help you to save money on your bills, make sure you’re not missing out on benefits you’re entitled to and find support for you if you’re in debt. Our team can make sure you’re getting the best prices and discounts and talk to your supplier on your behalf to help you solve any issues.
We’ll help you explore new ways to save money on your energy, including solar panels, heat pumps, upgrades to your boiler and making sure you’re not losing heat from your home. Chat to us and we can go through your options and help you make the best decision for you. We’ll help you fill in forms and write letters if needed.
Call 0800 4480721 (9am-4pm, Mon-Fri), fill in our online form, or come along to one of our new drop-in advice sessions:
- Bridlington: 6 Manor Street, YO15 2RU – Wednesdays, 11am-2pm
- Beverley: 33 Lairgate HU17 8JQ – Thursdays, 11am-2pm
- Goole: 80 Pasture Road, DN14 6HD – Tuesdays, 11am-2pm