ENERGY TIPS!

How to Improve Your Energy Efficiency at your Home.

1. Lower Energy Costs: A more energy-efficient home reduces heating and electricity bills.
2. Increased Property Appeal: Homes with higher EPC ratings attract more potential buyers and tenants.
3. Legal Requirements for Landlords: With upcoming regulations, landlords must meet minimum EPC standards, or face penalties.
4. Better Mortgage Rates: Some lenders offer improved rates for energy-efficient homes.

Quick and Simple Ways to Improve Your Energy Efficency

Install a Smart Meter

Energy suppliers will install smart meters in your home free of charge.  These meters provide real-time data on your energy usage through an in-home display, allowing you to track spending and save on bills.  Smart meters send automatic readings to your supplier, eliminating the need for estimated or manual readings, making budgeting easier.  Some suppliers even offer apps that let you monitor your energy use over time and take advantage of tariffs that offer cheaper electricity during off-peak hours.

Contact your energy supplier to find out if you’re eligible for a smart meter installation.

Consider a Smart Tariff

Along with shopping around for the best energy deal, some suppliers offer time-of-use smart tariffs with lower rates for electricity during off-peak hours.  This can be especially beneficial if your home consumes a lot of energy, like with an electric vehicle or numerous electrical appliances.  Shifting your energy usage to cheaper hours could lead to significant savings on your bills.

Smart tariffs also help reduce carbon emissions by lowering peak demand and encouraging the use of renewable energy.

Some households may be eligible for demand reduction schemes like the NESO Demand Flexibility Service, where you can earn rewards for shifting your energy use, potentially lowering your bills and earning points or prizes.

Smart Tips for Lowering Your Energy Bills

1. Lower Your Boiler Flow Temperature

For combi boilers, adjusting the ‘flow temperature’ dial to 60°C can improve efficiency.  This temperature allows the boiler to work in condensing mode, recovering heat more efficiently. Many UK boilers are set too high (70-80°C), which wastes energy.  For quicker heating, particularly for those over 65 or with health conditions, a flow temperature of 65°C may be more suitable.

2. Turn Down Radiators in Unused Rooms

Instead of turning off radiators completely in unused rooms, turn the radiator valve to a lower setting.  Fully turning them off can make your boiler work harder to maintain room temperature, which is inefficient and can cause mould and damp issues.  However, always ensure vulnerable individuals like children under 5 and people over 65 are kept warm enough.

3. Fix Draughts in Your Home

Draught-proofing is one of the most affordable and effective ways to reduce heat loss.  Block gaps around windows, doors, and floors to keep your home warmer.  Be cautious not to seal any essential ventilation points like extractor fans or airbricks.  You can do some draught-proofing yourself or hire a professional.

4. Insulate Your Hot Water Cylinder

Investing in a hot water cylinder jacket can prevent heat loss from your water tank, keeping your water hot for longer and reducing energy costs.  You can also insulate the pipes connected to your tank to stop them from freezing in cold temperatures.

5. Turn Off Appliances at the Socket

Electrical appliances such as televisions, computers, and smart devices continue to draw power when plugged in, even if they’re turned off.  By switching off the power at the socket or unplugging devices when not in use, you can save money on your electricity bill in the long run.

6. Install an Energy-Efficient Shower Head

Energy-efficient shower heads limit water flow or aerate the water to reduce usage.  They are easy to install and can be purchased at most home improvement stores, with some water companies offering them for free.  If you have an electric shower, consider switching to eco mode to achieve similar benefits.

These simple yet effective changes can significantly lower your energy bills and contribute to a more energy-efficient home.