Energy provider has shared how people can adjust their routine to save energy and money
British Gas has highlighted a ‘free’ energy-saving method that only takes just a couple of seconds to carry out and could help save on bills ‘every morning’. As the cold winter months approach, households across the country are seeking ways to lower their energy expenses.
British Gas has shared ‘six quick wins to save energy and money’ to help people ‘reduce’ their energy bill. Taking to YouTube, the energy supplier revealed ‘how to make small changes to reduce your energy use and save money on your energy bills.’
Introducing the suggestions, British Gas said: “You are bound to have heard a few familiar energy saving tips before, like turning off the lights in empty rooms, only boiling the water you need for your morning cup of tea, and not spending too long in the shower.
“That’s because building good energy habits really can lead to long-term savings. So here are six of our top tips that maybe you haven’t tried yet. The kind of simple changes you can make at home starting today that can help you save energy and money.”
One ‘easy’ hack simply requires people to open their curtains each morning. The video explained: Curtains are great insulators, but they can keep heat out, too. Throw them open in the morning and let the sun naturally warm and light your home. Then draw them again when it starts to get dark.” Closing your curtains at night can really help save on energy costs by keeping the heat in your house.
Windows let a lot of heat escape, and when you pull the curtains or blinds shut in the evening, it makes a barrier that stops warm air from getting out, which means you won’t need to use the heater as much. The advice continued: “To keep the day’s heat from escaping, give your tumble dryer a break. The general rule is that the bigger the appliance, the more energy it uses.
“Tumble dryers are particularly power-hungry, so dry your clothes outside if you can. Even in winter, you might be surprised how quickly a light breeze and a ray of sunshine can work wonders on your wet clothes or hang them on an airer inside when the heating’s on.
“Say no to standby. Another simple way to reduce your energy usage is to stop leaving electronics on standby. They’re still sapping electricity. So next time you’ve finished on your computer or done watching TV, turn them off at the plug. It all adds up.”
The experts also advised turning down the heating by one degree. “One degree can make all the difference. To keep heating costs down, your thermostat is a great place to start. Lowering the temperature by just one degree could reduce your heating bill by up to 10%. And while you’re at it, why not put your heating on a timer? That way you won’t waste energy while you’re tucked up in bed or out and about during the day.”
Continuing their advice, British Gas said: “Stay cool and energy efficient. One thing you can’t turn off is your fridge freezer, but for maximum energy efficiency, set your fridge to five degrees and your freezer to -18 degrees. It’s also a good idea to defrost your freezer regularly. This will keep your food fresh without wasting unnecessary energy or money.”
Additionally, the experts recommended using a smart meter, reports the Mirror. “Save with smart meters,” the advice said. “If you don’t have them yet, now could be a good time to switch to smart meters.
“They’re fitted for free and show you how much energy you’re using in real time, so you can see how you are using energy at home and work out other simple ways to save.” More tips are available on the British Gas social media channels and the website.