As energy prices reach historic highs, we’ve developed straightforward strategies to assist you in cutting down your bills and save energy at home.

Given that a significant portion of family budgets is allocated to energy bills, it’s prudent to explore methods for decreasing your consumption of gas and electricity.

When do people consume the highest amount of energy?

People typically use the most energy during peak hours, which typically occur in the late afternoon and early evening when households are simultaneously engaged in activities such as cooking, lighting, heating or cooling, and using electronic devices. This timeframe can vary depending on local energy demand patterns and climate conditions. Additionally, energy usage tends to be higher during extreme weather conditions when heating or cooling systems are running at full capacity.

What is the typical energy consumption for an average household?

The average household, housing four occupants, currently operates 13 electronic devices, including TVs and laptops. This marks a significant increase compared to 1990 when households typically used only four appliances, as per the Energy Consumption in the UK (ECUK) report.

However, despite the proliferation of appliances, our overall energy consumption has remained relatively stable over the past two decades, indicating that our devices have become more energy-efficient over time. Nevertheless, there are still numerous ways to reduce energy consumption and, consequently, save money.

How to save electricity

You can implement several adjustments within your household to reduce your typical electricity consumption. This may involve adopting more energy-efficient devices and appliances, such as energy-saving light bulbs and A+++ rated dishwashers. Additionally, consider replacing older appliances and preventing energy wastage by turning off unused devices at the plug.

How to save gas

Furthermore, there are actions you can take to economise on your gas expenses. This includes upgrading your gas appliances to more efficient models or installing a smart thermostat to monitor usage and enhance control over your gas-powered central heating.

Ways to save energy

The energy conservation suggestions provided below offer you various tools and strategies to reduce your gas and electricity consumption in your home. To illustrate the potential energy savings, we’ve incorporated estimated figures from the Energy Saving Trust.

1 – Eliminate Standby Power

• Turn off appliances at the plug to save approximately £30 annually.
• Utilise plug sockets that can be remotely controlled via your smartphone to ensure unused appliances are switched off.
• Consider cost-effective timer plugs to schedule appliance shutdown.

2 – Install a Smart Thermostat

• Smart thermostats enhance heating efficiency by heating only occupied rooms.
• They adapt to your heating habits, ensuring the right temperature at the right time.
• Remote control via your phone eliminates returning to a cold home.
• If you incorporate room thermostats, programmers, and thermostatic radiator valves, you could save around £75 annually.

3 – Reduce Thermostat Settings

• Nearly half of energy expenses go towards heating and hot water.
• Lowering your thermostat by just one degree can save up to £80 annually.
• Lowering your thermostat by just one degree can save up to £80 annually.

4 – Choose Energy-Efficient Appliances

• When replacing appliances, opt for those with high energy-efficiency ratings.
• An A+++ washing machine can use £65 less energy than an A+ model over an 11-year lifespan.
• A modern dishwasher is typically £7 cheaper to run annually compared to older models.
• An A+++ fridge freezer can save around £320 in energy bills over its lifetime compared to an A+ model.

5 – Upgrade to a New Boiler

• Enhance energy efficiency by upgrading to a new A-rated condensing boiler with additional features like a programmer, room thermostat, and thermostatic radiator controls.
• In March 2019 fuel prices, a detached house upgrading from a G-rated boiler could save approximately £300 annually.

6 – Wash Clothes at Lower Temperatures

• Washing at 30 degrees instead of 40 degrees can reduce energy usage.
• Cutting out one wash cycle per week can save £5 on your yearly energy bill.

7 – Efficient Water Use

• Washing up in a bowl instead of using a running tap can save around £25 annually.
• Invest in a more efficient showerhead to save up to £18 per person yearly on energy bills.
• Installing a shower timer can save up to £7 per person annually by reducing shower time by just one minute.

8 – Invest in Double Glazing

• Double glazing insulates your home, reducing heating bills and noise.
• A-rated double glazing can save up to £110 annually for a semi-detached home entirely single glazed.

9 – Draught-Proof Your Property

• Prevent heat loss and the temptation to increase heating by sealing draughts with draught excluders or kits.
• Seal cracks in floors and skirting boards, line your letterbox, and block unused chimneys to save up to £35 annually.
• For homes without double glazing, consider plastic window lining to save energy and retain heat.

10 – Roof Insulation

• Insulating your roof prevents heat loss but may require professional assistance.
• Loft insulation, while costing several hundred pounds, can save around £135 annually for a typical semi-detached house.

11 – Monitor Your Consumption

• Stay vigilant about energy consumption to determine necessary adjustments.
• Smart Meters offer real-time consumption data for informed energy management.

Need an Electrician?

You can reach out to Ability by completing the form available on our website, calling us at (+44) 01892 514495, or sending a message to info@ability.uk.com. Rest assured, we prioritise prompt responses and will get back to you as swiftly as possible. Our goal is to provide you with the necessary help and guidance without delay.