Easy tips to help reduce your Energy Consumption

Our household appliances use a lot of energy. The chart below shows the average UK household energy use and how it is split amongst different appliances, showing exactly which of our appliances use the most energy. 

Source: Department of Energy & Climate Change

There are many ways in which you can reduce your energy consumption. By following these simple tips you can save a lot of money on your electricity and gas bills as well as do your bit to help reduce air pollution and global warming.

The Basics

1. Turn It Off!

• Many people will leave their computers and laptops on 24/7, this not only uses up a lot of a lot of unnecessary energy, contributing a great deal to electricity bills, but is also not good for the computer/laptop itself. Charging a laptop constantly whilst it is switched on and already full of charge will dramatically reduce the batteries life.
• This does not just work with computers and laptops, any appliance/electrical equipment that does not need to be left on constantly (i.e Fridges, Freezers etc...) should be switched off properly when not in use, this will save a lot of energy and ultimately will save you money. 

2. Unplug It!

• Many electrical appliances consume electricity even when they are not in use.
• To save energy and money, unplug all unused items, such as a televisions, microwaves, digi boxes, computers etc... or plug them into a power strip that can be turned off, this will cut all power to any devices plugged into it. 
• If you have an extra refrigerator that holds a small amount of items, consolidate those items into your main refrigerator and unplug the unused refrigerator.

3. Turn Lights Off When Not In Use!

• Pretty self explanatory. Don't unnecessarily have lights on during the day and switch lights off when you leave an empty room. 

4. Use Appliances As Efficiently As Possible!

• Ensuring you use your appliances as efficiently as possible will save you a lot of money on your energy bill and will also make your appliances last longer. For more information on how to do this click here.

5. Monitor Your Usage!

• One of the most useful ways to assess how much energy you use in your home is to purchase an energy monitor. These will tell you how much you spend on electricity for particular items in a room on a daily basis and highlight areas where you can save money. Alternatively, apps are available for computers, smartphones and tablets that can telly you where you are using the most energy and give you tips on ways to reduce your energy consumption with specific appliances. 

Some More Handy  Tips On Reducing Your Energy Consumption

• Draught proof your home
• Insulate your walls and roof space
• Install energy efficient appliances and heating system
• Use reflective panels behind radiators
• Use energy efficient light bulbs
• Reduce hot water thermostat to 60 degrees
• Reduce space heating thermostat to below 21 degrees if you are fit and healthy
• Only switch heating and lighting when at home
• Only boil the water you need in the kettle
• Keep fridge and freezer doors shut as much as possible
• Dry clothes outside

For more information on living a greener lifestyle and the benefits it could have on your life please click here.