The days are starting to get a little longer but the chill is still in the air and there is no sign of being able to switch the heating off anytime soon. Why not try out a few of our energy saving tips to get your pound to stretch further.
- Draught proofing your home is one of the cheapest ways of reducing heat loss. Think about all the gaps where warm air can escape and cold air can find a way in. Tackle this holistically; close curtains at dusk, use insulation strips on doors and windows, fit covers over the letterbox and front door keyhole. Finally if you are carpeting then an underlay will help prevent heat loss through the floor
- Heat loss through the roof can be combatted by loft insulation, this is recommended at 270 mm
- Cavity wall insulation can save up to £250/year on energy bills some energy providers are offering both types of insulation to customer groups
- The Energy Company Obligation (ECO) can provide a range of ‘free’ insulation, heating and other measures to some low-income and vulnerable households.
- Switching energy supplier could save you money if you are armed with the right information. Before you look at comparison sites have an energy statement to hand showing your usage and the method you prefer to pay.
- Try to change family energy behaviour, remind everyone to switch off appliances and lights when not in use – sometimes putting little post it notes next to switches can encourage behaviour change.
- Only boil the amount of water you need in your kettle.
- A microwave can cost less than an oven to cook smaller items.
- Keep a room thermostat to monitor temperature, at home in colder weather your main living space should be kept at 21°C and all other spaces, including bedrooms, at 18°C for health and comfort. Some older people, young children, disabled people or those with a long-term illness may need higher temperatures, but avoid overheating rooms.
- Install cheap radiator panels or tin foil to help reflect heat back into the room.
If you need further energy efficiency advice or are worried about paying your fuel bills please contact the Shelter Scotland Helpline free on 0808 800 4444.