Energy Efficiency - Top Tips

Here are some steps you can take to save energy - and your hard-earned cash.

1. Don't leave electrical appliance on standby, if left on stand-by with the red light on it uses up to 25% of the power.
2. Take a shower instead of a bath; it uses less than half the hot water and can save £5 - £10 a year.
3. Always ensure you turn your taps off correctly. In one day, a dripping hot water tap can waste enough water to fill a bath.
4. Put aluminium foil behind any radiators fitted on outside walls and save up to £10 a year.
5. Install low energy bulbs in lights that are left on for more than three hours a day.
6. Turn the thermostat down 1^oc and save £15 - £30 a year.
7. Use your washing machine sensibly. Wait until you have a full load and choose a cool cycle of 40^oc for most washing.
8. Don't overfill your kettle. Only put in the water you need for the number of hot drinks you are making.
9. Choose the right size pan for cooking and use the lid. Choose the right size ring to fit the pan or turn down the gas or electric.
10. Always switch your lights off when you leave a room.
11. Draw the curtains in the evening when it's cold and the heating is on to reduce heat loss.
12. To eliminate draughts and wasted heat use an easy-to-fix brush or PVC seal on your outer doors.