Household Energy Saving Advice For Homeowners

With rising energy costs and growing environmental concerns, UK homeowners are increasingly looking for ways to reduce their energy consumption. It’s important to make sure that you’re taking every practical step.

Understand Your Energy Usage

The first step in saving energy is understanding how much you’re currently using. Smart meters, which are being rolled out across the UK, can provide real-time information about your energy consumption. If you haven’t been offered one yet, contact your energy supplier to see if you’re eligible.

The Energy Saving Trust, a UK-based organisation, offers a home energy check tool on their website. This can help you identify areas where you might be wasting energy and suggest improvements specific to your property.

Switch to Energy-Efficient Appliances

When it’s time to replace household appliances, look for models with high energy efficiency ratings. In the UK, appliances are rated from A+++ (most efficient) to G (least efficient). While energy-efficient appliances may have a higher upfront cost, they can lead to significant savings over time.

The UK government’s Energy Technology List provides information on energy-efficient products for businesses, but many of these principles apply to home appliances as well.

Upgrade Your Lighting

Switching to LED bulbs is one of the easiest ways to reduce energy consumption. LEDs use up to 90% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and can last much longer. While the initial cost is higher, the energy savings quickly offset this.

Consider installing dimmer switches or motion sensors in areas like hallways or outdoor spaces. These ensure lights are only on when needed, further reducing energy waste.

Optimise Your Heating System

Heating accounts for a significant portion of most UK households’ energy use. Ensure your boiler is operating efficiently by having it serviced regularly. If your boiler is old, consider upgrading to a more efficient model. The UK government occasionally offers boiler upgrade schemes, so check the official website for current initiatives.

Install a programmable thermostat to ensure you’re only heating your home when necessary. The UK’s Energy Saving Trust recommends setting your thermostat to the lowest comfortable temperature, typically between 18-21°C.

Insulation Is Crucial

Proper insulation is key to maintaining a comfortable temperature in your home while minimising energy use. The UK government estimates that a quarter of heat is lost through the roof in an uninsulated home.

Start with loft insulation, which is relatively easy to install and can significantly reduce heat loss. Wall insulation, either cavity or solid wall, can also make a big difference. External wall insulation can lead to substantial energy savings. Next Energy UK can save you a lot of money with their government-backed scheme. 

Don’t forget about draught-proofing. Check for gaps around windows, doors, and floorboards, and use appropriate materials to seal them. 

Consider double or triple glazing for your windows if you haven’t already. This can significantly reduce heat loss and also help with noise reduction.

Be Water-Wise

Heating water accounts for a significant portion of energy use in most homes. Install water-efficient showerheads and taps to reduce hot water usage. Fix any leaks promptly, as even a small drip can waste a surprising amount of water over time.

If you’re due to replace your hot water cylinder, consider a well-insulated tank. The better insulated it is, the less energy it will use to keep water hot.

Invest in Renewable Energy

While the upfront costs can be significant, investing in renewable energy sources like solar panels can lead to substantial long-term savings. The UK government periodically offers incentives for installing renewable energy systems, so check the official website for current schemes.

Even if you’re not ready for solar panels, consider a solar water heating system. These can provide a significant portion of your hot water needs, especially during summer months.

Use Energy-Saving Features on Electronics

Many modern electronics have energy-saving modes. Ensure these are activated on devices like computers, televisions, and gaming consoles. Remember to turn devices off completely when not in use, rather than leaving them on standby, as they still consume energy in this mode.

Consider using smart power strips, which can automatically cut power to devices when they’re not in use.

Be Mindful in the Kitchen

The kitchen is often a hub of energy consumption. Simple changes can make a big difference. For example, only boil the amount of water you need in the kettle, use lids on pots when cooking to reduce cooking time, and let hot food cool down before putting it in the fridge.

When using the oven, try to cook multiple items at once to make the most of the energy used to heat it. Consider using a slow cooker or microwave for smaller meals, as these often use less energy than an oven.

Regular Maintenance

Regular maintenance of your home and appliances can prevent energy waste. Clean or replace filters in appliances like tumble dryers and vacuum cleaners regularly. Keep radiators clear of furniture and clean to ensure efficient heat distribution.

Don’t forget about less obvious areas: clean your fridge’s condenser coils, defrost your freezer regularly, and keep windows clean to maximise natural light.