20 ways to cut down on energy bills

5 ways to reduce your heating bill

It goes without saying that an top-of-the-line heating system paired with high-quality insulation is the best solution for an efficient home. But it's also important to make sure these savings don't go out of the window by making sure you have good habits:

1. Don't open the front door unless absolutely necessary and limit the amount of time it stays open.
2. Close the doors to any unheated rooms.
3. Don't hang curtains directly in front of radiators.
4. Bleed your radiators regularly.
5. Keep your shutters closed on the very coldest days, even during daylight hours.

5 ways to make appliances more energy efficient

While most of us know to set our washing machines to eco mode, turn off appliances when they're not in use and to replace old light bulbs with LED bulbs, a few other good practices could make a world of difference:

1. All new appliances should have an A+++ rating wherever possible.
2. Clean the condenser coils of your fridge.
3. Do not put any warm dishes in the fridge.
4. Ensure your cold appliances are installed far away from any sources of heat.
5. Reduce the size of your television; a 180cm screen consumes the equivalent of three 80cm screens.

5 tips to reduce energy usage in the kitchen

It might not be the first area to spring to mind but there are energy savings to be made in the kitchen. In addition to choosing energy-efficient appliances, following a few cost-free tips should help to make savings you can apply elsewhere:

1. Cover your pots when you are heating water.
2. Use the right size of pot to match the size of the cooking zone (for electric hobs).
3. Turn off your hob just before you finish cooking to use residual heat from the hob (unless you have an induction hob).
4. If you have a self cleaning oven, use the feature just after cooking while the oven is still hot.
5. Avoid opening the oven door unnecessarily while cooking.

5 tips to save water and electricity

By now, we all know to double check the heating is off before any period of absence. And when it comes to lighting, just remember the ever-pertinent words of parents across the country: 'It's like Blackpool illuminations in here!'

1. Make the most of natural lighting and only turn on the lights if absolutely necessary.
2. Avoid lampshades made of thick materials.
3. Position your mixer tap to cold when you turn it off.
4. Locate and repair any leaks as soon as possible.
5. Take more showers than baths and turn off the water while you are lathering up.

More information on saving energy

Looking to reduce your energy bill and get a better handle on your consumption? Don't hesitate to check out our other guides:

• How to use less energy at home
• How to save money on hot water
• How to save money on your heating bill
• How to save money on your electricity bill

You may be interested in these guides

• How to make your home more sustainable
• How to heat your home
• How to save money on your heating
• How to save money on your energy bills
• How to save on your electric bill
• Hob buying guide