Energy used in the home accounts for around one-quarter of all energy used in the UK. The average Dorset home uses around 4000 kWh of electricity per year. With a few changes you can easily achieve 10 to 15% savings.
You can find advice on things you can do to save energy, help the environment and reduce your energy bills in Our Energy and Money Saving Booklet.
Quick fixes to help you save energy
Follow these simple steps to save energy in your home:
- unplug appliances – turn electrical appliances off standby by switching them off at the wall where you can
- switch off lights - turn off lights when you’re not using them or when you leave a room
- replace old bulbs - when it’s time to change a lightbulb fit a low energy bulb in its place
- think before you fill - only fill your kettle with the water you need
- wash at 30º - wash your clothes at 30 degrees and, if you can, use one less cycle a week
- dry laundry outside - dry washing outside or on a clothes rack rather than in a tumble dryer
- shower don’t soak - swap baths for short showers (reduce showers by just 1 minute to save even more)
- wait for a full load - only use your dishwasher and washing machine when they’re full
- keep out draughts - draught-proof your windows and doors and close curtains at night to keep the warmth in and the cold out
- turn down your thermostat - turn your heating down by just 1 degree (if comfortable to do so) and cut heating bills by around 10%
- insulate your hot water tank - insulating your water tank, pipes and radiators is an easy way to save money
See more quick wins from the Energy Saving Trust.
A bit more time and budget to conserve energy
Follow our tips to conserve energy around the house:
- get a smart meter - smart meters show how exactly how much energy you are using in your home and what it's costing you, helping you to make smart decisions about your energy use. Visit Smart Energy GB to find out whether you can get one fitted
- water pipes - pipe insulation is cheap and will keep your water hotter for longer. Find out more from Wessex Water
- doors and windows - draught-proof your doors and windows to keep the warmth in. Download a manual for draught busting
- curtains - fit thermal linings to your curtains; you'll feel warm and cosy and might be able to turn the heating down
- home improvements - consider installing loft or cavity wall insulation or upgrading your heating system. Grants towards improvements are sometimes available, find out how much you could save from making home improvements
- go renewable - switch to a green energy tariff
- for advice on switching energy suppliers visit the Citizens Advice website