5 Environmentally Friendly Hacks To Slash Your Energy Bill

Saving on your energy bills isn’t just a great way to save money – it’s a wonderful way to help the environment. The things we do over the next 50 years will determine what happens to the planet, so it’s about time everybody tried to make sustainable lifestyle changes. Here are 5 ways you can save on energy bills around your home.

1. Turn Your Thermostat Down Ever So Slightly

For the first few years as a homeowner, I was notorious about wasting energy on heating and cooling costs. I went through a ton of hoops to rationalize my energy wasting habits, which only hurt the environment. One of the biggest mistakes that I made was setting the thermostat incorrectly.

Then I read a document from the Department of Energy, which shared some tips on setting the thermostat more carefully to save energy. The resource showed that turning your thermometer down by just 7-10 degrees for eight hours a day can lower your yearly energy usage by 10%. If you turn it down for the whole day, then you can save up to 25%.

You don’t have to freeze in your home to help the environment and save money. You can turn your thermostat down ever so slightly and still save a lot of money. By simply turning it down a few degrees, you’ll make a big difference to your bill and the planet. Even better if you can put a few more layers on before deciding to crank the heating up!

2. Turn Things Off When You’re Not Using Them

If you’re like most people, you probably leave your appliances on standby when you’re not using them. People don’t think much of this, but if you turn appliances off at the plug, you stand to save an average of £30 a year. It can take a little time to get used to, but it really can make a difference. If you struggle to remember or you want to make sure everybody is on the same page, leave yourself some post it notes near the appliance so you remember.

It is also a good idea to unplug devices when they are not in use. Some appliances use a lot more energy being plugged in than others, even when they are not in use. This article from AOL lists the 12 biggest energy wasting appliances.

3. Invest In More Energy Efficient Appliances

How long have you had your appliances? In general, if they are more than 10 years old, they could likely do with being replaced with more energy efficient appliances. Star rated appliances are usually the best. You could replace your boiler, refrigerator, or something else that you haven’t replaced in a while and see significant changes in your energy bills.

You could save over £100 per year by getting a new refrigerator alone!

4. Stop Wasting Water

Many of us waste water without even realizing it. To save water, do the following:

• Stop running the tap when you’re brushing your teeth or doing the dishes. Just use as much as you need.
• Have short showers instead of longer showers/baths.
• Wait until you have a full load of washing before putting it in the washing machine.
• Get a low flush toilet.
• Invest in a new, water saving shower head.
• Eat less meat (the production of meat uses a lot of water).
• Only boil as much water as you need in the kettle.

5. Draught Proof Your Property

Make sure draughts aren’t changing the temperature of your property. Fill in any cracks and crevices that may be letting in draughts. You may also want to pay attention to your insulation, ensuring your home can stay cool in summer and warm during winter.

Temperature control is essential for saving on energy bills while remaining as comfortable as possible. This guide on Lending Expert suggests that turning down your thermostat by just 1 °C will reduce your heating bills by 10%

By aiming to start with the above 5 suggestions, you’ll save money and help the environment. Don’t wait, make those changes now!

There are Loads of Ways to Save Money on Energy Costs and the Environment at the Same Time!

Your home uses a lot of energy. As a result, it is a big contributor to climate change. Fortunately, following these tips will trim your energy bill and save the environment at once.