Be more energy efficient
Over a quarter of the UK's annual CO2 emissions come from the energy we use in our homes, so it is important to be more energy efficient in order to reduce our contribution to climate change. Remember being energy efficient is not just great for the environment but it's also going to save you money on your fuel bills.
There are a number of easy energy saving measures you can take.
Cavity wall insulation: This involves a professional installer injecting insulating material into an external wall by drilling a series of small holes. There are grants available to carry out this work and you can save up £100 - £330 on your annual heating bills. Grants are available to all Aylesbury Vale residents, contact Cocoon on 0800 804 8777 for more information.
Loft insulation: Adding a layer of insulation about 270mm thick can significantly reduce your reduce heating bills. There are grants available to all Aylesbury Vale residents so contact Cocoon on 0800 804 8777 for more information.
Draught-proofing and floor insulation: Cheap and simple to install, putting draught excluders around all doors and windows will stop warm air escaping and cold air coming in.
Programmable central heating. A time switch or programmer allows you to set heating and hot water to come on only at times when you need it.
Fit Thermostatic Radiator Valves (TRV’s) to radiators. These allow you to regulate the temperature in each room to meet your own comfort level.
Fit energy saving bulbs throughout your home.
Simple energy saving tips
- Turn your thermostat down by 1 degree. It is unlikely that you will feel the difference in temperature in your home, but you will be reducing the amount of energy you use.
- Close your curtains at dusk. This helps to keep warmth in rooms. Purchasing or stitching thermal linings to your curtains will improve energy efficiency even further.
- Turn off your appliances and don't leave equipment on standby. You can purchase 'power down' devices that will allow you to turn off all your electronic equipment in one go, rather than turning off individual items.
- Wash your laundry at 30 degrees. For clothes that are only lightly soiled a 30 degree wash will get them clean.
- Always turn off the light when you leave the room. Why pay for energy you're not using?
- Only boil as much water as you need and put lids on pans when you're cooking.
Tips and energy saving measure sourced from www.energysavingstrust.org.uk
Date Updated: 29/05/09