Hints and tips for an eco friendly household
With the growing popularity of comparison websites, more consumers are voting with their feet than ever before and choosing to switch energy suppliers to save money on energy bills. But there are other ways to save on your monthly expenses, as well as cutting the negative impact of energy use on our planet. Here we give you some green tips that will help you cut costs too.
Use energy saving light bulbs - Making the switch to energy saving bulbs is a no-brainer. Not only do they use up to 80% less electricity than a standard bulb, but they last up to ten times longer. When you go low energy bulb shopping, only buy bulbs which show the Energy Saving Recommended logo, as this indicates that the bulb meets standards set by the Energy Saving Trust so that you know it really is saving you energy.
Don’t neglect the sunshine - A gift from nature, and 100% free to use, is the sun’s natural light. Of course, you can employ solar panels to turn this into electricity, but by just leaving your curtains open a little longer, you’ll be able to use more of this natural energy in its simplest form, and less of your electricity supply. Or, as a change from regular lighting, why not light a couple of candles instead - creating a more relaxing atmosphere in your home as well as saving energy!
Remember your light switches - We know you’ve heard this before, but it bears repeating as it is such a simple energy saver, and it really make a difference. Whenever you leave a room turn out the light. It’s as simple as that.
Replace your multi-bulbs - Ask yourself if you really need a two or four-bulb light fitting. By replacing it with a single bulb fitting you’ll save energy and money, and it’s a cheap and simple improvement to make.
Say goodbye to the standby - Appliances on standby are far from switched off. In fact, appliances on standby still use a substantial amount of energy while that little red light is on. As well as the tv, turn anything off at the mains which has a big transformer plug, or any kind of light on it, be it a timer, clock or little LED.
Saving energy in the kitchen - Your clothes will still come up shining after you’ve washed them at a lower 40 degrees, and by making sure you only ever do a full load of washing you’ll be operating much more efficiently. If you must do a smaller wash, use your machine’s economy or half load setting. If you have to use a tumble dryer, you’ll save time and money by wringing out or spinning dry your clothes before tumble drying so they spend less time in the machine. Try not to use tumble dryers as these are very costly and energy heavy, hang your clothes outside or on a clothes horse instead wherever possible.
Look out for grade A’s - Next time you’re looking to buy an electrical appliance, look for the Grade A energy efficiency logo. This indicates that the appliance is the most efficient of its type.
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