Simple ways to cut the bills and help save the planet
But the cost of retro-fitting these into older homes can be prohibitive and, no matter how well intentioned the owner, there is a dis-incentive if the cost is not re-couped.
So what can we do to existing properties to make them as energy efficient as possible and slash those soaring fuel bills at the same time? Try these ten tips:
- Use energy-efficient compact fluroescent light bulbs. They are more expensive to buy but last much longer than old-fashioned bulbs.
- Put uncooked vegetable and fruit peelings into a compost bin. Ad old egg boxes and cardboard to balance nitrogen with carbon. It's great for the garden.
- Fit aerators on your taps. These mix the water with air so use less water, reducing your bill as well as saving a valuable natural resource.
- Collect rain-water from your garden. Water butts can be left free standing to collect rain, or better still, link them to external drainpipes to fill up quicker.
- Put a filled plastic washing up bottle in your toilet cistern. Crazy? Not at all - it reduces the water used to flush the loo, without reducing its efficiency.
- Improve insulation - lag the loft, put a jacket on the boiler, fit draught-strips around doors and windows. This could slash 20% from your heating bills.
- Use natural toiletries and cosmetics which will be better for your budy and have fewer side effects when sashed off.
- Reduce heating in the house by one degree and see if that remains comfortable - once again this helps save money as well as the planet.
- Don't keep TVs, DVD players or other devices on standby overnight. This accounts for a remarkable 12% of all household electricity usage.
- Use an airer for clothes and a drainer for washing up if you have time - these are as efficient as a tumble dryer and dishwasher, but use less energy.
Did you know
Government grants of up to £2,500 are available to some householders to improve energy efficiency under the Warm Front Initiative.
New consumer laws also oblige the large utility firms to provide energy efficiency schemes for consumers. Check with your gas or electricity company or switch at no cost to a greener supplier. Some local councils also offer grants to lag lofts. If you want a one-stop-shop to guide you through what you can do in your own home, contact the Energy Saving Trust.
This article appeared in the February 2007 edition of Insideout magazine.
