Simple tips to reduce your energy bills

Get into everyday energy-saving habits to reduce your fuel bills. It’s good for the environment too!

• Switch off standby – turn off electrical appliances at the plug – most can be turned off with upsetting their programming (check the instructions though)
• Draught-proof windows and doors and letter boxes to stop cold air entering
• Draw curtains at dusk and open them during the day – this acts as a barrier and prevents heat loss
• Open curtains during the day to take advantage of sunlight in the winter to keep your house warm
• Turn off lights and use LED bulbs
• Wash cloths at 30-40°C – higher temperatures cost more and reduce use if you can
• Avoid using the tumbledryer – dry clothes outside where possible
• Do not dry clothes directly on radiators – this stops the warm air flow around the room
• Adjust your boiler settings – set the heating to come on 20 minutes before you get out of bed to warm the house
• Turn the thermostat down by one degree
• Spend less time in the shower – keep your shower time to just 4 minutes and swap your bath for a shower
• Avoid overfilling the kettle – just fill it with amount you need
• Fill your dishwasher – make sure you run a full load and use the eco setting if you have one

Find more energy saving tips at the Energy Saving Trust and Simple Energy Advice