How To Save Energy At Home

1. Turn off electronic devices at the socket

Wondering how to reduce your electricity bill? Making minor changes to your daily habits is one of the easiest ways to save money. Use energy-saving modes on appliances where possible and avoid leaving them on standby when not in use. Instead, switch them off at the socket (except for your fridge, freezer and some smart TVs which can record programmes while on standby).

It’s estimated that you could save £45 a year by following this tip.

2. Lower your boiler flow temperature

Reducing your boiler's flow temperature can help you save energy. These controls are separate from your other heating controls, and there are different ways to do this depending on the type of boiler you have:

• Conventional boilers with a hot water cylinder – this type is the most straightforward to adjust, as they have a single control.

• Combi boilers without a hot water cylinder – there are two controls: one for radiators and one for hot water. Adjust the radiator setting to reduce the boiler flow temperature.

We recommend setting the temperature no lower than 65°C to ensure sufficient water heating and eliminate the risk of legionella bacteria developing.

Following this tip could save you as much as 9% on your energy bills, depending on the previous settings you used.

3. Draught-proof doors and windows

Draught-proofing your windows and doors is one of the easiest DIY projects and most affordable energy-saving options for your home. You can buy self-adhesive draught-proof strips to stick around window and door frames, helping to prevent heat loss.

Draught-proofing could save you around £85 a year on energy bills.

4. Use a smart thermostat and only heat the rooms you need

Ensure you understand your heating controls and set them only to heat the rooms you need to the required temperature. Most central heating systems include a timer or programmer, a room thermostat and thermostatic radiator valves.


To make your home even more energy-efficient, consider investing in a smart thermostat, which allows you to control your heating remotely via an app. This lets you set timers and check that your heating is turned off after you leave.


Installing heating controls could save you up to £110 a year.

5. Cut your shower time or switch to a water-saving showerhead

Reducing the time you spend showering could save you money on your water and heating bills – up to £45 a year if you only take a 4-minute shower every day. But if you love long showers, swapping your current showerhead to a water-saving model could save you up to £65 a year.

6. Don’t run appliances half full

Running the dishwasher or washing machine only when it’s full is an effective way to save energy. If you reduce your dishwasher use by one cycle per week, you could save £11 per year.

7. Air dry your laundry

Using the tumble dryer might be more convenient, especially during winter when washing takes longer to air dry, but each cycle uses a significant amount of energy.


Air drying your laundry instead of using the tumble dryer could save you up to £50 a year.

8. Invest in insulation

Insulating your hot water tank (if you have one), as well as pipes and radiators, is a great way to reduce energy costs. Plus, it’s a budget-friendly, DIY option.


Hot water tank insulation could save you up to £195 per year and reduce your annual CO2 emissions by 720kg, depending on your property type.

9. Switch to LED lighting

LED bulbs are the most energy-efficient lighting available. They are suitable for various applications, including dimmable lights, spotlights, and outdoor lighting, allowing you to replace all the bulbs in your home.


Switching from halogen to LED bulbs throughout your home could save you up to £45 a year. This will also lower your CO2 emissions by 35kg.

10. Take advantage of off-peak energy rates

Some energy providers offer off-peak or time of use tariffs, helping you save on your bills. Energy costs vary per provider, and you’ll need a smart meter to take advantage of these initiatives. Contact your energy provider to find out if you’re eligible to switch to a time of use tariff.

 

All our Barratt new build homes are designed to be energy-efficient, featuring premium insulation throughout, double-glazed windows and smart technologies, helping you save money on your bills.

 

Call or visit our Sales Advisers to start your homebuying journey today.