Find out energy consumption facts about common household appliances. Learn more about the various heating systems available to you and why ventilation is important.
Energy saving tips:
Insulation
33% of heat can be lost through walls. Wall and loft insulation is the most cost-efficient way to cut up to 50% heat loss.
Hot water tank
Insulating jackets for a hot water cylinder cost around £10 and save £10-£15 a year. Fit a British Standard at least 7.5cm thick.
Draughts
Use easy to fix brush or PVC seal on exterior doors. Stop draughts and heat escaping through floorboards and skirting boards by filling gaps with newspapers, beading or sealant.
Hot water pipes
Insulate between the boiler and hot water cylinder to stop heat escaping. Cost around £1 a metre, saving around £5 a year.
Windows
Draught proof … a cheap alternative to double glazing is to tape plastic film or fix cling film across window frames. Plastic sheeting can be fixed with Velcro or double sided tape and can be used every year. Some homes lose up to 20% of heat due to single glazed, poorly insulated window frames.
Curtains
Close at dusk to stop heat escaping through windows. Don’t let curtains hang over radiators – tuck behind to let heat flow into the room. A heavy curtain at the front door will also help stop heat escape.
Too warm?
Turn the thermostat down by 1oC. It could cut heating bills up to 10%. If you are going away in winter, leave the thermostat on a low setting to avoid freezing.
