In this resource we have gathered tips from a variety of sources that will help you to save energy and therefore money this winter.
- Set your boiler’s flow temperature between 55 and 60 degrees. This could help you cut your bills by 12%. Your boilers default setting is usually too warm turning it down by this amount will not affect how warm your home feels much at all. For combi boilers octopus recommend setting flow temperature to 50c for heating and 55c for hot water to save energy. If you have a boiler and a hot water cylinder, set the flow temperature on your boiler to a few degrees over 60c for heating and hot water, and set your hot water cylinder to 60c
- Heat the right places at the right times. Set timers on your central heating to make sure your home is only heated when needed. You can also conserve energy by turning radiators down in the rooms you don’t use as much. Make sure that heat can flow around the home well by making sure that radiators aren’t blocked by furniture.
- Control your thermostat better- Tweaking your thermostat often through boosts and turning it on/off often can lead to energy waste. Setting it and leaving it is more efficient, setting your thermostat to somewhere between 18-21°c is ideal.
- Manage and reduce your hot water usage. Taking simple steps like having a shower rather than a bath and reducing time spent in shower to reduce your water usage will help you make savings. Keeping your shower time to just 4 minutes could save a typical household £60 a year!
- Unplug your vampire devices as they drain energy when left plugged in examples include smart speakers, TV’s, Microwaves, Phones, tablets, computers and laptops left on charge.
- Ditch the tumble dryer and consider your washing machine usage. Ditching the tumble dryer and drying your clothes on a washing line or clotheshorse could save you £50 a year according to the Energy Savings Trust. You should also avoid using radiators to dry clothes as this causes more energy usage. In terms of washing, you should use 30-degree washes and put in full loads or use a smaller load setting.
- Mind the gaps to prevent draughts- Try and plug gaps arounds doors and windows to trap warmth in. Another top tip is to pull your blinds and curtains before it gets dark as this can result in up to 17% less heat loss.
- Other simple yet effective tips include turning lights off when you leave a room and using the dishwasher less.
Discover more tips and information using the following links:
https://www.nationalgrid.com/winter/tips-for-saving-energy-this-winter
