15th October 2007
Making energy-saving changes to your home does not have to mean great expense or a dramatic change in your lifestyle. Have a look at some of the following handy hints which can help you on the way to living a more energy-efficient lifestyle.
Light Bulbs
The truth is that the simple act of replacing a light bulb is significant. Just consider these facts:
- An energy-efficient light bulb lasts up to 10 times longer than a normal light bulb – that’s 10,000 hours
- They consume a quarter of the electricity of a normal bulb, and a main room light bulb can save you up to £7 per year (assumes a 100W light bulb being replaced by a 20W compact fluorescent and 1,100 hours use per year)
- Although they cost a little more, they will pay for themselves within 6 months or so, and over the course of their lifetime can save you around £60
- Candle effect and dimmable energy saving light bulbs are available as are energy saving halogen bulbs.
Green Electricity
In the UK nearly three quarters of our electricity is generated by burning coal and gas, releasing millions of tonnes of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. Only a small proportion of our electricity is green, which means it is generated from renewable sources that have less of an impact on the environment.
You can support the growth of renewable energy by changing your supplier to a green electricity provider and making the switch is easier than you think.
To find out how, visit Green Electricity for a list of providers in your area.
Energy efficient appliances
If you're buying a new electrical appliance make sure you check its environmental credentials. Energy efficient appliances are usually no more expensive in the long run and will save you money in running costs.
The Energy Saving Trust endorses products of proven energy efficiency. Look out for their Energy Saving Recommended logo to be guaranteed that a product will save energy, cost less to run and help the environment.
Water
Shortages can develop quickly during hot, dry periods in some parts of the country, so it is important we all do our bit to reduce consumption in the home.
Many of the things we can do to reduce consumption require very little effort or expense. Turning the tap off when brushing your teeth, or using a water butt to collect rain for use in the garden can save millions of litres a year.
If you don’t already have a water meter, your supplier will install one, possibly free of charge. This could save you money and help you save water too.
Visit the Environment Agency’s website for more information
Waste and recycling
81% of UK waste currently goes to landfill, 11% is recycled and 8% is incinerated with energy recovery. However, we could reuse, recycle and compost 80% of our household waste.
You could cut down on some of your green household waste such as vegetable peelings by home composting.
And instead of recycling paper, why not limit the amount of junk mail you receive in the first place?
You can contact your local authority to find out more about their waste and recycling measures. Or for more information go to recycle now.
Home improvements
Whether you're moving or improving your home it’s a good idea to take the opportunity to review your home energy efficiency and take steps to reduce its environmental impact.
There are a variety of measures that can be undertaken from insulating your hot water tank and fitting loft insulation, to installing a wind turbine or solar panels.
Further Information
This article is an extract from a fuller leaflet and website which has been put together in conjunction with the Energy Saving Trust and Forum for the Future.
If you’d like to learn more about saving money and the environment you can visit these websites:
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