It’s that time of the month again. As you slowly read your energy bill, your raise your brow higher and higher in bewilderment. Does your provider think that you run a nuclear reactor?
Well, at Star Domestic Cleaners we know that there are probably a few reasons for these big numbers and today, we’re going to help you find them.
Here are 9 ways in which you can lower your energy costs without breaking the bank.
Switch to Energy-efficient Light Bulbs
Lightbulbs drain more energy than we may realise.
LED lamps can use less electricity than older lamps for the same light output. Compare the lamp’s wattage and rated life; the annual cost depends on use and your current tariff. Check current Energy Saving Trust advice.
So, the sooner you make the switch, the better. Wondering how to save electricity at home even further? Good, because we have lots of tips left to share.
Have a Second Fridge? Get Rid of it ASAP
When thinking of how to save on your energy bill, always consider if you’re constantly using everything you have or, in this case, don’t use it at all. If you happen to own a second fridge that you keep running in your basement just in case your local store does a sale, you will end up spending more money on energy bills than you would save on groceries.
Consider whether a second fridge is needed and compare its running cost with your actual use. Dispose of unwanted appliances through an appropriate recycling service. Keep food safely stored in the fridge you use.
Do not overfill a fridge or block internal airflow. Follow the appliance’s loading and temperature instructions rather than assuming a full fridge always uses much less energy.
Think Your Air Vents Are Wide Open? Think Again
How often do you check the air vents in your home? Exactly. The problem is that we’ll usually assume all vents are open and we’ll leave it at that.
Keep required vents unobstructed and follow the heating or cooling system’s maintenance instructions. A blocked vent does not establish a universal doubling of energy use.
The result is – you’ve guessed it – a beefier electricity bill. The professional cleaners in London advise to do yourself a favour, and make sure to check and clean your vents at least once every few months.
Give Your Clothes & Dishes the Cold Treatment
Heating wash water contributes to energy use, but the proportion depends on the machine and programme. Compare the appliance’s programme information rather than applying one percentage to every wash.
Use a lower-temperature programme where it suits the items and their care labels. Some laundry has different hygiene needs, so 30–40°C is not a rule for every load.
Use the dishwasher’s recommended efficient programme when suitable, load it correctly and follow its drying options. Do not simply lower every wash temperature regardless of the programme or hygiene requirements.
If you want to take things one step further, stop pre-rinsing your dishes in hot water and just lightly scrub them before placing them in your dishwasher.
Alright, let’s take a look at our next tip.
That Thermostat You Have? Turn it Down a Notch
If your household can stay comfortably warm, use heating controls to avoid unnecessary heating. Savings depend on the building, system, use and tariff; a fixed annual £60 saving is not reliable for every home.
Set heating controls around your household’s needs and the heating system’s instructions. Keeping heating on continuously at a low setting is not automatically cheaper than using an appropriate schedule.
Make sure to play around with your timer settings until you’re able to hit that “sweet spot” where you’re feeling comfy and saving money at the same time.
Learn How to Optimally use Your Cooker Rings
We bet you never thought about this one before, but using your cooker properly is one of the best ways to save some precious energy.
For instance, if you need to use a small pan, place it on the small ring to make the most of your appliance. And, if you’re cooking a meal for 10 people, then make sure to place it on the biggest ring you can find.
Yep, it’s that simple.
Get Free (Yes, FREE) Cavity Wall Insulation!
Insulation support depends on current schemes, location, eligibility and whether the property is suitable. Check the rules before assuming the work will be free.
Ask for a property-specific assessment and current costs or funding information. Do not use a fixed percentage or old annual saving to decide whether insulation is suitable.
How to Reduce your Electricity Bill? Buy Energy-efficient Products!
If the replacement of your washing machine or any other appliance is long overdue, consider swapping it for a more energy-friendly model.
Compare energy ratings and likely usage before replacing an appliance. The saving depends on the old and new models and tariff; replacing every appliance does not guarantee a particular annual return.
Make the Most of Your Electronics
Simply buying efficient appliances or electronics is not enough to open up a savings account. You also need to know how to make the most of them at any given time. For example, desktop computers tend to drain lots of power even when they enter standby mode, so it’s always best to power them off completely when you’re done using them.
The same goes for TV sets, video game systems (Xbox One, PS4, etc.), and even phone and tablet chargers which can drain power even if they aren’t really charging anything.
All in all, by making smart use of your appliances and insulating your home, you’ll be sure to see a significant return on investment once the next electricity bill arrives in your mailbox.
Contact us for professional help.
