How To Save Energy In Your Home
Save Energy In Your Home. By saving energy within our homes we can directly reduce the amount pollutants choking the planet. This video shows how to protect the environment and save money in nine easy steps.
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Step 1:
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Draught Proof Your House
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In an average house up to 20 percent of heat is lost through draughts*. To test an area simply hold the palm of your hand up against a door or window - if you feel cold air coming through, warm air is escaping. This is simple to fix and can save you hundreds on your yearly heating bill.
Fit draught excluders around all exterior doors and interior if need. Fill in any cracks or crevices on window frames, skirting boards or floors with a filler or sealant.
Closing curtains or shutters after dark fall also traps in the warm air and prevents draughts.
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Step 2:
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Turn down the thermostat
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Turning your thermostat down by just 1 degree can reduce your energy consumption by over 5 percent*. You won't even notice the difference in room temperature
On the same note, don't heat rooms when you are not using them.
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Step 3:
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Hot water temperature
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Your hot water thermostat needn't be higher than 60 degrees centigrade, that's 140 degrees Fahrenheit. Any higher and you will only be mixing it with cold water to cool it back down for use.
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Step 4:
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Turn off
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Turn off any appliances you are not using which includes switching of lights when you leave the room. And don't use the 'stand by' function on you TV, stereo and DVD player. Appliances left on standby by mode when they could be turned off pumps up to 1 million tonnes of carbon into the atmosphere each year.
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Step 5:
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Wash economically
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Try to only use the washing machine when you have collected a full load, if not use the economy or half load setting. Modern washers work just as effectively at 40 degrees as they do at 60, but the 40 degrees setting will cut carbon emissions by a third. Tumble dryers use up a huge amount of energy, hang your clothes on a line instead. This is better for your clothes as well as the environment
Washing economically doesn't just apply to your clothes. Taking a shower instead of a bath uses around 50 percent less energy*.
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Step 6:
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Insulate
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Up to a third of your home heating escapes through the roof. Prevent this insulating your loft. Not only is it simple to do but also the most cost efficient energy saving measure you can make. If you don't already have it invest in cavity wall insulation. This will prevent another third of your heat escaping.
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Step 7:
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Grants
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Saving energy is such a vital issue that Grants are available to help you make the necessary home improvements. Energy suppliers, the government and your local council all offer help in paying for energy saving measures. Check on the Energy Saving Trust website to see what offers are available to you
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Step 8:
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Energy efficient appliances
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From light bulbs, to kitchen goods to home entertainment equipment - there are a plethora of energy efficient appliances now on the market. Amazingly they can use 50 percent less than other models, and up to a quarter less for light bulbs. Have a look at the energy saving trusts website to see their product recommendations
Make sure you use all electrical appliances in an energy efficient way. When using a kettle, only boil as much water as you need. Don't leave fridge or freezer doors open for longer than necessary, and don't forget your freezer needs to be defrosted regularly for it to run efficiently. Give your boiler regular check ups, especially if you have had it for a few years.
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Step 9:
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Switch to eco-friendly energy
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Many energy suppliers are now offering power from renewable sources rather than polluting fossil fuels. Do you research to find out which company in your area is offering green energy. It won't take long to fill out the paperwork but the consequences will last lifetimes
Following these steps will not only save you hundreds in bills, but also help save the planet
