Top energy saving tips for your home:

Your lighting

 Lighting is one of the largest electricity users in the home.

• Always turn off lights you aren’t using.
• Changing to energy saving light bulbs is one of the easiest ways to save electricity and money. Energy saving bulbs are available for most types of light fittings.

Your kettle

Changing the way you boil water for cooking can help you save energy, time and money.

• Use the kettle to boil water for cooking, instead of heating a pan on the electric hob. Not only will this be more energywise it will generally take less time too.
• Only boil enough water in your kettle for your needs.

Your standby shutdown

Some items can still use energy when plugged in even if the appliance has been turned off.

• Turn the television off when you are not watching it.
• Ensure all electrical appliances are turned off at the plug when not in use and avoid using standby buttons.
• Most of the appliances will keep track of your settings even when unplugged, but check the instructions on the appliances you are not sure about.

Cooking tips

• If you are able to, use a microwave or a pressure cooker for small items instead of the oven. This cooks food quicker and saves energy.
• When boiling vegetables use just enough water to keep them covered.
• Always use the right size pan for your cooking ring and put a lid on it. This will help save energy as the food will cook quicker.
• A steamer means you can cook several types of vegetables on one ring.
• If you use an oven for cooking, try not to open the door too often before it’s done.

Fridge and freezer tips

• Keep your fridge at around 3°C to 5°C.
• If you need to load or unload your fridge, do it as quickly as possible and don’t leave the fridge door open for longer than you need to.
• Defrost your fridge or freezer on a regular basis to help prevent a build up of ice.
• Keep fridges and freezers away from cookers and direct sunlight.

Laundry tips

• If you have a washing machine, use an economy programme (e.g. 30°C) whenever possible.
• When the weather is fine and if possible, dry your laundry outside, instead of using the tumble dryer.
• Keep filters clean in the tumble dryer, if you use one. Use Eco Balls in the tumble dryer. They make gaps in the washing to allow the heat to move more freely so clothes will dry quicker.

Heating and water tips

• Try to limit showers to only a few minutes. Not only will this save you water, it will also save you money on water heating.
• If you have a water immersion tank in your home, make sure it is insulated. This will help keep the water hot for a longer period. Also, make sure it’s switched off when you don’t need the hot water.

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• What's the difference between you and my electricity supplier?
• What's the difference between a single phase or three phase electricity supply?
• How do you get power back on during a major incident?