There’s no doubt that energy costs are rising across the globe.
With inflation at an all time high it’s more important than ever to find ways to save money on home energy costs.
In this article we will look at some top tips to help you save money on your energy bills.
Why are energy Prices going through the roof?
There are many contributing factors that have caused prices to rise such as
- Legal and environmental regulations
- Rising global demand for energy
- The increasing cost of raw materials used to generate energy
Maintaining and updating the energy infrastructure is also a factor. As energy sources become more renewable, they tend to be more expensive than traditional sources like coal and natural gas.
Fortunately, there are easy ways you can lower your own energy costs without sacrificing comfort at home.
Here are five of our top tips for home energy savings:
Tip #1: Invest in Energy Efficient Appliances
Investing in energy efficient appliances can help reduce your home energy costs substantially.
By replacing old inefficient appliances such as:
- Refrigerators
- Dryers
- Washing machines
- Dishwashers
With more energy efficient models, you can save up to 30% or more on your electricity bills.
When you are shopping for a new appliance, look for an Energy Star label to ensure the most efficient use of electricity.
This label is given to products that meet certain standards set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for energy efficiency.
However replacing old appliances will cost you money in the meantime so will not be achievable for many people .
Tip #2: Unplug Appliances & Electronics When Not in Use
Believe it or not any electrical devices will still cost you money on your electricity bill when left plugged in and switched on.
For example Leaving TVs, computers, and other electronics plugged in while not in use can add up to a lot of wasted energy over time.
To help reduce your energy costs, make sure to unplug any electronics or appliances when not in use. This will help cut down on your electricity bills and won’t cost you money to do.
Tip #3: Utilize Natural Light
Another great tip to save you some pounds is to take advantage of natural light during the day.
Open up your curtains or blinds to let in the sunlight, and make sure that windows are free of any obstructions to make the most of the natural day light.
During the summer months we have much more daylight so make the most of it by keeping your lights switched off during the day.
When it does get dark try and use candles or LED lamps as they are much more energy efficient than traditional incandescent bulbs.
Tip #4: Install a Programmable Thermostat
A programmable thermostat can help you save energy and money by setting your home’s temperature automatically.
This way, you don’t have to worry about manually setting the temperature every time you leave or enter the house.
By setting a certain temperature during the day and night, you’ll be able to maintain your desired level of comfort while still staying energy efficient.
The optimal temperature for the average home in Britain is 19-21°C.
A thermostat will usually cost in the region of £50-£100 but if you are eligible for a Green Deal energy efficiency grant, the cost may be covered so it is worth looking into.
Tip #5: Seal Doors, Windows & Cracks
Air leaks can be a big problem and cause many unwanted problems such as:
- Drafts
- High energy bills
- Unwanted noise from outside
- Damp
Make sure to check all your doors and windows for any cracks or gaps. If you find any, use caulking or weatherstripping to seal them up. This will help keep the warm air in and cold air out.
Cracks in your home will cause heat to escape and leave you still feeling cold no matter how high your thermostat is.
Check you have cavity wall insulation as this can also help reduce heat loss especially in older houses.
By sealing all the cracks and air leaks in your home, you’ll be able to effectively trap the heat inside without needing to turn up the thermostat. This will save you money on your energy bills as well as keep you warm and cosy.
Bonus Tip: Invest in Solar Panels
If you’re looking for a more long-term solution to lower your energy costs, consider investing in solar panels.
Solar panel installations can help you save money while also reducing your impact on the environment. They are a great way to reduce your reliance on traditional energy sources and reduce your carbon footprint.
There are many incentives for solar panel installations, so now is a great time to look into this investment!
Bonus Tip: Change Outdated Light Bulbs
Light bulbs are often overlooked when it comes to energy efficiency, but they can make a big difference in your monthly bill.
Replacing outdated light bulbs with more efficient LED or CFL options can help reduce energy costs significantly.
Plus, these more modern lighting solutions provide better illumination and last longer than their traditional counterparts.
LED lighting also has the added benefit of being much cooler than traditional bulbs, meaning your air conditioning bills may be reduced too.
Saving Money with Energy Efficiency
With the whole world becoming more energy Efficient why not join in and help climate change while saving a few pounds.
Investing in energy efficient appliances, unplugging electronics when not in use, utilizing natural light, installing a programmable thermostat, sealing doors and windows and changing outdated light bulbs are all great ways to start saving money on your home energy costs.
Bright Ideas for Home Energy Savings
As we have looked at in this article, saving energy and money in your home doesn’t have to be a daunting task.
With these five tips, you can easily lower your energy costs without sacrificing comfort or convenience.
Remember, making small changes in your daily habits can lead to big energy savings over time!
