You have probably heard these before, but they're the most cost-effective methods available…
Change your light bulbs
Switch to energy efficient light bulbs. Lighting accounts for 15% of our electricity bills and Government research has shown that £1 out of every £3 spent on lighting and heating a home is wasted. Fit all the lights in your house with energy saving bulbs and you could save around £45 a year and £600 over the lifetime of all of the bulbs.
Insulate your hot water tank
Insulating your hot water tank will reduce heat loss by up to 70%. It costs you money to heat your water, so to minimise the heat lost from the tank fit a water tank jacket that's at least 75mm thick. It will only cost a few pounds and save £15-£20 per year.
Switch things off when not in use and look for the logo
Borrow an energy monitor from your local library for a couple of weeks, this will guide you to turn things off when you are not using them, and you can manage your electricity use down gradually. When you replace appliances, look for products that display the Energy Saving Trust Recommended logo. These products have to meet strict efficiency criteria.
Stop draughts
A typical home loses 20% of its heat through draughty doors, windows and ventilation ducts. Fit draught proofing products to your doors, windows and keyholes.
Insulate your loft
This is one of the most cost effective ways to reduce your heating bills and you can do it yourself (DIY). By laying down loft insulation to the recommended thickness of 270mm you could knock up to £200 off your annual heating bill. DIY shops and online retailers commonly offer bulk discounts, sometimes DIY insulation materials are subsidised by energy suppliers. For further energy efficiency advice call Gloucestershire Energy Saving Trust Advice Centre FREE on 0800 512012.
