In partnership with Brunel University, we are sharing these tips to help you reduce the units you use.
On their own, these changes may seem small, but collectively they can make a significant difference.
Turn your heating down
- Each degree you cut your home thermostat will result in a 4% reduction in your energy consumption - that's a £100 saving per year based on a typical home. (MoneySavingExpert)
- When indoors, try and keep the living room temperature at a maximum of 21°C and other rooms at 18°C, which is also considered an ideal temperature for most people to sleep.
- Leaving your gas central heating on low all day is not cheaper; only put it on when you need it. (Students Organising for Sustainability, via Brunel University)
- Using radiator thermostats will allow temperature control in individual rooms, so that rooms that are less well used - or not needing to be heated - can be isolated and use less energy.
Reduce the water you use
- Only boil the amount of water you intend to use, ensuring you follow the minimum water levels of your appliance.
- Run your dishwasher when it is full, and be careful with excessive rinsing and use of kitchen and bathroom taps.
- Switching from baths to a 4-minute shower will most likely result in a saving on your heating bills.
- Cutting just a minute off your shower time could save £207 a year in energy bills, and a further £105 a year in water bills if you have a meter - that's £312 a year, based on an average 4-person household. (MoneySavingExpert)
- Try and only wash full loads and run on lower heat settings. It is estimated that switching to full loads and only washing on 30 degrees could save a typical household £73 a year. (MoneySavingExpert)
Switch it off
- Unplug all chargers when devices are fully charged. Overcharging uses unnecessary energy and can reduce the lifespan of the battery.
- Turn off lights when not in use and, where possible, switch to energy-saving lightbulbs.
Please note: The figures presented on this page are illustrative and not guaranteed. Savings depends on your household and your personal choices.