Over the last year, the cost of electricity and gas has risen due to ongoing economic factors. If you’re worried about spending too much on energy consumption each month, there are a number of simple steps you can take to help save energy at home and be more energy efficient. The following nine energy saving tips will help you on your way to saving on energy costs in your home.
1. Use a Thermostat
If you don’t have one already, install a thermostat. Turning a thermostat down by just 1°C can shave 10% off your home heating bill, according to the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI).
2. Look out for Energy Labels
If you’re buying a new appliance, check the EU Energy Label for it. This label will show the energy rating of an appliance. If possible, go for appliances that are ‘A’ rated as they will be the most energy efficient.
3. Invest in Energy-Saving Light Bulbs
Replace as many of your light bulbs as possible with CFLs (compact fluorescent lights). While they are initially more expensive, CFLs can use up to 75% less energy than traditional, incandescent bulbs. They also last up to 10 times longer.
4. Switch Off Appliances
Turn off appliances such as TVs and game consoles when they are not in use, rather than leaving them on standby. When appliances are on standby, they still use up electricity!
5. Insulate Your Hot Water Cylinder
A lagging jacket on a hot water cylinder will keep water hotter for longer and also reduce energy consumption by reducing heat loss.
6. Be Savvy with Your Washing Machine
Wash clothes at lower temperatures (such as 30°C) and use shorter washing cycles to save on energy costs.
7. Boil the Water You Actually Need
When using an electric kettle, only boil the amount of water you need each time. As well as saving on water, this simple action will also keep your energy costs down in the long run.
8. Choose a Shower Over a Bath
A bath may be infinitely more luxurious than a shower but limit it to an occasional treat! The SEAI estimates that a typical shower uses about one fifth of the energy it takes to fill a bath.
9. Turn Off Lights
Get into the habit of turning off lights when you’re not using them or when you leave a room. It might not seem like a big deal, but the energy savings will have an impact on your electricity bill over time.
Now you’ve got the tips you need to save your homes energy, why not try improving your homes Building Energy Rating (BER)?
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