Simple ways to use less energy in the home

We can all benefit from using less energy in the home. Even with the government extending its energy bills support scheme until June, fuel and electricity are still major contributors to the current cost of living crisis. Taking steps to use less energy in the home is therefore a great way to make significant savings on our essential expenses.

The good news is that it is easier to save energy than you might think. While some guidance on energy efficiency for homeowners involves major renovation, such as the installation of an eco-friendly heating system, there are also lots of easy things you can do to be greener. Discover six simple ways to use less energy in the home in 2023.

How to cut your gas bill

Lower the target temperature

One of the easiest ways to reduce your gas bill is to turn down the thermostat. Even lowering the target temperature by just one or two degrees Celsius can have a major impact on cutting the cost, without being too noticeable to those residing inside the house.

Improve your insulation

Many methods for improving the insulation of your property require significant investment, such as upgrading the glazing on your windows, lining your walls and roof space, or fitting new doors.

However, simple draught-proofing is an affordable way to get quick wins. This includes sealing cracks around your windows and using products such as draught excluders at the bottom of doorways.

How to spend less on electricity

Be conscious in the kitchen

When you are cooking, remember that each appliance uses a different amount of electricity. For example, microwaves use significantly less electricity than traditional ovens. In the same vein, induction hobs are more energy efficient than their gas-powered or electric counterparts.

As well as being conscious about which appliances you use, think about how you are using them too. Preparing several portions at once rather than cooking daily will save energy in the long run. When using the kettle, measure out the water carefully to ensure that you are only boiling what you need.

Take appliances off standby

Televisions, lamps, chargers, and frequently used equipment such as kettles are often left plugged in even when we don’t need them. But did you know that appliances still use energy when they are in standby mode? You can make significant annual savings by taking these appliances off standby.

Simple technology such as a standby saver can help you avoid wasting electricity unnecessarily. Standby savers work by automatically cutting off the electricity supply to devices they recognise as being in standby mode.

Switch to energy-saving bulbs

Although lighting is a minor contributor to our electricity bill when compared with appliances, it is still worth switching to energy-saving bulbs. LED bulbs use up to 90% less electricity than traditional light bulbs and last longer to boot. Although slightly more expensive, they’re worth the investment.