Energy efficiency in the home is a big issue currently; wasted energy not only costs the home owner money but also has an effect on the environment which is a much more global concern. Wasted energy can directly or indirectly lead to further pollution; from using your car more than is necessary to leaving lights on when a room is not in use.

When fossil fuels such as coal, oil and gas are burnt in order to provide homes with energy they release carbon dioxide or CO2 into the atmosphere. This surplus of CO2 released on a day to day basis is at levels greater than the seas, plants and trees can absorb. Carbon Dioxide (CO2) is a greenhouse gas, responsible for trapping heat producing infra red radiation within the earths atmosphere helping to maintain the earths (relatively) temperate climate. A build up of CO2 upsets the delicate balance of these greenhouse gases which contributes towards climate change.

25% of all the CO2 produced in the UK is produced by energy used in the home. In order to reduce or impact on the environment there are a number of things that we can do to reduce energy loss. These changes can reduce the amount of carbon dioxide (CO2) that we create.

Energy Efficiency - Low Cost Tips

• Insulating a hot water cylinder with a insulating jacket
• Insulate your central and hot water pipes to prevent heat loss
• Place silver screens being your radiator to reflect heat back into the room
• Fit letterbox spring flaps and a cover to the keyhole
• Seal the gaps in skirting boards and floorboards
• Seal gaps around doorframes and window frames
• Energy saving lightbulbs uses around 25% of the electricity and can last up to 12 times longer then ordinary bulbs.
• Mend leaking taps or pipes as soon as you notice them.
• Consider replacing windows with double or even triple glazing

Energy Efficiency solution at NO extra cost

• Set the thermostat on your hot water cylinder to 60c.
• Turn your room thermostat down by one degree. Every 1c reduction could save up to 30.00 each year on your fuel bills.
• Make sure all air vents are clear of blockages.
• Turn off lights when you leave a room.
• Close internal doors to prevent draughts.
• Switch appliances that have a standby mode off at the mains.
• Don't leave mobile phone or mp3 chargers plugged in after they have finished charging
• Draw your curtains at night time to prevent heat from escaping and open them again in the morning to allow light into the room.
• Have a shower instead of a bath. Showers use a lot less water than a bath.
• After using the bathroom, remember to open a window to prevent condensation but close the bathroom door.
• Keep the plug in the sink when washing anything, do not use running water.
• When using your kettle, only boil the amount of water you actually need providing the heating element is fully covered
• Choose the right size pot or pan and keep the lid on top, which will keep the heat in and shorten the cooking time.
• Whenever possible, use a microwave to cook smaller food items.
• Cooking creates moisture. Remember to open your windows but close the kitchen door to prevent moisture escaping to other rooms.
• Avoid leaving the fridge door open too long.
• Ensure warm food cools down before placing it in the fridge.
• Defrost your fridge and freezer compartments regularly .
• Always use a full-load in your washing machine or an economy setting if you need to use a half-load.
• Wring clothes before using a tumble dryer or preferably hang them out to dry.
• If you have clothes that need ironing try to do them all in one go.