With the cost of living rising and energy prices fluctuating, everyone’s looking for ways to cut back on household bills. The good news? You can make some changes today that could lower your energy usage and save money. Let’s dive into 20 actionable tips to help you reduce your home energy bills in the UK without compromising your comfort.
1. Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Appliances
It might sound like a big investment upfront, but replacing old, inefficient appliances can save you heaps in the long run. Look out for products with an A++ or A+++ energy efficiency rating. These appliances use less electricity and water, which means lower bills. For example, a new fridge or washing machine could pay for itself over time through energy savings.
Where to check: Energy Saving Trust’s guide on energy-efficient appliances.
2. Install a Smart Thermostat
A smart thermostat helps you control your heating more effectively. It learns your routine and adjusts the temperature when you’re home or away, ensuring that you’re not wasting energy. Many smart thermostats can be controlled via an app, so you can even adjust your heating while at work or on holiday.
Check out smart thermostat options here: Nest and Hive Smart Thermostats.
3. Switch to LED Lighting
If you’re still using old incandescent bulbs, it’s time to switch to LED lighting. LED bulbs are about 80% more efficient and last significantly longer than traditional bulbs, meaning you’ll save on both energy and replacement costs. Plus, the brightness and warmth of modern LEDs are on par with their traditional counterparts.
For a variety of LED options, visit: The LED Hut.
4. Use a Clothes line or Drying Rack
Tumble dryers are notorious for guzzling electricity. Whenever possible, air-dry your clothes on a line or drying rack. Not only will you reduce your energy bills, but your clothes will also last longer without the harsh heat from the dryer.
Learn more about energy-efficient laundry practices here: Energy Saving Trust’s laundry guide.
5. Install Double Glazing
If you haven’t already, installing double-glazed windows can significantly reduce heat loss, making your home warmer in winter and cooler in summer. This means you won’t need to use your heating or air conditioning as much, saving you money year-round.
For more information on window upgrades, check out: Double Glazing UK.
6. Draught-Proof Your Home
Draughts around windows, doors, and even loft hatches can cause a significant amount of heat loss. By sealing these gaps, you can make your home more energy-efficient. Draught excluders, self-adhesive foam strips, or even thicker curtains can help keep the warm air in and the cold air out.
Find some DIY draught-proofing tips here: Which Draught-proofing guide.
7. Turn Down the Thermostat by One Degree
This one is super simple but incredibly effective. By turning your thermostat down by just one degree, you can save up to 10% on your energy bills. Most people won’t even notice the difference, but your wallet will.
Read more about thermostat settings here: The Guardian’s energy-saving tips.
8. Use Heavy Curtains
Thick, heavy curtains act as an extra layer of insulation, especially over large windows and patio doors. Close them at dusk to keep the warmth inside and the cold air outside. During the summer, keeping them closed during the day can help keep your home cooler too.
Check out options for energy-saving curtains here: Dunelm Thermal Curtains.
9. Utilize Off-Peak Energy
If you’re on an energy tariff with cheaper rates during off-peak hours, try to shift your high-energy activities to those times. For example, running your washing machine or dishwasher overnight can help you save. Just make sure your appliance has a delayed start function, so you can set it to run when rates are lower.
For more information on off-peak tariffs, check out: Octopus Energy’s off-peak plans.
10. Insulate Your Loft
A poorly insulated loft can lead to significant heat loss. Insulating your loft or attic is a relatively simple job that can pay off quickly, reducing your heating bills by keeping the warmth where it belongs – inside your home.
Check out this loft insulation guide: Energy Saving Trust Loft Insulation.
11. Consider Solar Panels
Although it’s a bigger investment, installing solar panels can drastically reduce your energy bills over time. You’ll generate your own electricity, and any excess can be sold back to the grid. In the long run, you could end up paying little to nothing for your energy.
Get more info on solar energy here: The Solar Trade Association.
12. Use Energy-Saving Cooking Techniques
When cooking, there are several simple steps you can take to save energy. Use lids on your pots to cook food faster, and consider batch cooking so you can reheat meals later. Using a slow cooker or microwave for smaller meals can also save energy compared to your oven or hob.
Learn more about energy-efficient cooking here: BBC Good Food’s tips.
13. Wash Clothes at Lower Temperatures
Washing your clothes at 30°C rather than 40°C can reduce energy consumption by up to 40%. Modern washing powders and liquids are designed to clean effectively at lower temperatures, so your clothes will still come out fresh.
Read more about energy-efficient laundry here: Energy Saving Trust Laundry Guide.
14. Use Smart Plugs
Smart plugs can help you manage devices more efficiently by allowing you to turn off appliances remotely or on a schedule. You can also monitor how much energy each device uses and identify energy-hungry gadgets that might need replacing or upgrading.
Explore smart plug options here: Techradar’s best smart plugs.
15. Service Your Boiler Regularly
A well-maintained boiler will run more efficiently, using less energy to heat your home. Annual servicing ensures your boiler is working at its best and helps prevent costly breakdowns. Consider upgrading to a more energy-efficient model if your boiler is older than 10 years.
Find out more about boiler servicing here: Boiler Guide.
16. Install Solar Water Heating
Solar water heating systems use free energy from the sun to heat your water. It’s an excellent option for reducing both your energy bills and your carbon footprint. While the initial cost might be high, the long-term savings are significant.
For more on solar water heating, visit: Energy Saving Trust’s guide.
17. Defrost Your Freezer Regularly
A freezer that’s caked in frost has to work much harder to keep your food frozen. Defrosting your freezer regularly ensures it’s working efficiently and helps you avoid unnecessary energy costs. Also, make sure to keep your freezer well-stocked, as a full freezer uses less energy than an empty one.
For more freezer maintenance tips, read this guide: Which Freezer care guide.
18. Use Hot Water Bottles and Throws
Instead of cranking up the heating during the colder months, try using hot water bottles and cozy throws to stay warm. These simple alternatives can help you cut back on energy use without sacrificing comfort.
Check out this article on staying warm without heating: The Independent’s tips on staying warm.
19. Use Motion Sensor Lights
Motion sensor lights, particularly outside your home, only switch on when they detect movement, which can save a lot of energy. They’re ideal for areas that don’t need constant lighting, like gardens or driveways.
Explore options for motion sensor lights here: Amazon UK’s top-rated motion sensor lights.
20. Unplug Devices You’re Not Using
Even when turned off, many appliances continue to draw power if they’re plugged in. By unplugging devices or using power strips that can be switched off, you can reduce this ‘phantom load’ and cut down on your energy consumption.
Learn more about energy vampires here: Energy Saving Trust – Standby power.