As the UK faces the growing challenges of climate change, reducing energy usage in our homes is one of the most effective ways to make a positive environmental impact.
The residential sector is responsible for a significant portion of the UK’s carbon emissions, primarily from heating, lighting, and powering everyday appliances. By reducing our personal energy consumption, we can directly lower these emissions and play a crucial role in the fight against climate change.
One Action Together wants to encourage you to make changes where you can.
Once you have taken an action to save energy make sure to share it on your social media tagging @stalbansgreenertogether.
Energy Saving Methods:
1. Improve Insulation
- Loft Insulation: Ensure your loft is well-insulated to prevent heat loss.
- Wall Insulation: Insulate external walls or use cavity wall insulation.
- Boiler Insulation: You can insulate your hot water tank with an insulation jacket.
- Draught Proofing: Seal gaps around windows, doors, and floors to prevent cold air from entering. Find advice and tips on the Energy Saving Trust website.
2. Upgrade Heating Systems
- Smart Thermostats: Use a smart thermostat to control heating more efficiently.
- Maintain Your Boiler: Regular servicing ensures your boiler runs efficiently.
- Radiator Reflectors: Install reflective panels behind radiators to direct heat into the room.
3. Switch to Energy-Efficient Appliances
- A++ Rated Appliances: Choose appliances with high energy efficiency ratings to reduce electricity usage.
- Energy-Efficient Lighting: Replace incandescent bulbs with LED bulbs, which use less energy and last longer.
4. Change How You Use Energy
- Turn Off Standby: Switch off appliances completely when not in use rather than leaving them on standby.
- Use Energy-Saving Modes: Use eco-settings on devices like washing machines and dishwashers to reduce energy consumption.
- Take Shorter Showers: Reducing shower time can significantly lower water heating costs.
5. Upgrade Windows
- Double-Glazing: Install double-glazed windows to reduce heat loss and increase energy efficiency.
- Window Films: Apply reflective films to windows to reduce heat loss and gain.
6. Switch to Renewable Energy
- Solar Panels: Consider installing solar panels to generate your own electricity and reduce reliance on grid power.
- Green Energy Plans: Switch to an energy supplier that provides renewable energy.
- Go Renewable: check out the Energy Saving Trust’s Go Renewable tool to see what could work for you.
7. Use Less Hot Water
- Efficient Water Heating: Use a timer for water heating to avoid unnecessary energy use.
- Low-Flow Fixtures: Install low-flow showerheads and taps to reduce water and energy consumption.
- Reduce Washing Frequency: try to only wash your clothes if they really need it, this could save a lot of energy and money.
8. Monitor Your Energy Use
- Smart Meters: Install a smart meter to track your energy consumption and identify areas where you can save.
- Energy Audits: Consider an energy audit to find additional ways to reduce energy use in your home.
9. Use Natural Light
- Maximise Daylight: Open curtains and blinds during the day to reduce the need for artificial lighting.
- Light-Coloured Walls: Light walls and ceilings reflect natural light, reducing the need for electric lights.
10. Cook Efficiently
- Pressure Cookers: Use pressure cookers or slow cookers, which consume less energy than conventional ovens.
- Batch Cooking: Cook larger meals at once to save energy by using the oven less often.
By adopting these energy-saving tips, you can reduce your environmental impact and lower your energy bills. Every small change helps contribute to a more sustainable future.
For further inspiration check out Judith Leary Joyce’s Instagram. Judith renovated her home while prioritising energy saving and has some excellent tips on her page.
Once you have taken an action to save energy make sure to share it on your social media tagging @stalbansgreenertogether.
Let’s show local people taking local action.
Example Post
Caption: Today I did my food shop with a reusable bag and used my reusable water bottle to do my part to reduce single-use plastic use in the District. @stalbansgreenertogehter #OneActionTogether