Over the last few years there have been continuing rises in utility provisions. Now – with the prospect of leaving Europe and the uncertainties of Brexit – we are all wise to look to making savings on our month expenditures. Every little bit helps!
There are some top tips to help you save on your electricity bills.
1. Turn off lights that are not being used: Whether it’s a bedside lamp, a kitchen light or your living room light. If you are on your way outside or are simply not in the room, make sure you’re vigilant at turning off them light bulbs to save on your electricity bills.
2. Daylight hours: draw back those curtains and enjoy the natural light.
3. Washing and Drying Clothes: avoid the temptation to put only a few items in the wash. A full load of washing is much more economical. Tumble dryers are very convenient but expensive on your electrical tariff. Small items could be hung on a drying stand or alternatively on a washing line to naturally dry quicker with the wind.
4. Showering: a quick shower will save on water as well as electricity. If you limit yourself to a few minutes in the shower a day, you could be saving a lot more in the long run!
5. Dishwashing: As with the washing machine, a properly stacked dishwasher will be more economical. Why not consider hand-washing large items such as pots and pans and make room for smaller utensils such as cutlery and plates that are easily stackable.
6. Electrical Appliances: After using an electrical appliance, remember to switch it off safely at the socket. By doing this you are saving yourself electricity as the appliance is switched off at the mains and no current is running through. This could also be a safety hazard as if you are not using an appliance, it should always be switched off.
7. Heating: As the evenings close in, wearing extra layers of clothing such as a jumper and jogging bottoms – or even that “onesie” suit will all help save money on your bills. By managing your heating thermostat sensibly, you will keep bills down and help the environment at the same time. Draught excluders for doors etc. can be purchased and even made with cheap or up-cycled items.
8. Standby: Electrical items such as TVs are still using electricity when they are ‘turned off’ and put on what’s known as standby mode. Consider whether it is in your best interests to turn them off completely when you are not using your electrical appliances.
9. Switching to LEDs: A lot of research has gone into whether it is beneficial to run LED lighting throughout your house. When installed by a certified electrician, the lifetime of LED bulbs last considerably longer than normal filament bulbs. You could be saving time, effort and money in the long run by switching to LEDs today. On average, the quality of the light produced by LEDs usually shines significantly brighter than your ordinary filament bulb.
10. Look around for the cheapest provider, this may vary as to where you may be situated. Websites such as MoneySupermarket and uSwitch allow you to check prices in comparison to your current provider. If your paying too much, switch over at your earliest convenience.