Energy saving at home

Taking steps to save energy at home can save you money and make a real difference to the environment.

Green energy suppliers

Green energy generally means that your electricity comes from renewable sources, such as wind or hydroelectric power. Switching to a green energy supplier will reduce your impact on the environment.

Search by postcode for green energy suppliers in your area:

• Energylinx website
• Green Electricity Marketplace website

Electrical appliances

• Switch off appliances when you're not using them – leaving them on standby can waste £30 a year per household.
• Buy appliances that are energy efficient, see Energy Saving Trust website – Home appliances.

Find out more:

• Directgov – Saving energy in your home
• BBC Bloom – Choosing energy efficient appliances.

Insulation and heating

Almost half the heat in your home is lost through the roof and walls. Checking your heating settings and improving your insulation can cut your bills and reduce impact on the environment.

• The maximum recommended temperature for heating is 19°c and costs can rise by 10% for each 1°c increase.
• Choose an energy efficient boiler, see Energy Saving Trust website – Heating.
• You may be eligible for a grant to help with the cost of insulating your home, see Energy efficiency grants.

For more ideas about insulation and heating, see:

• Energy Saving Trust
• Directgov – Insulating and heating your home efficiently.

Water

• Turn off the tap while you brush your teeth – this can save a huge 10 litres a minute!
• Save water every time you flush by fitting your toilet cistern with a Save-a-flush or Hippo Bags – or even a brick. Free bags are available from Southern Water and South East Water.
• Garden plants prefer rainwater to tap water. The Get Composting website has details about how to obtain a reduced-price water butt.
• Read how a local family are saving water at home.

Find more tips on the Waterwise website – Saving water at home.

Lighting

• Fit energy saving lightbulbs, see Energy Savings Trust – Energy saving lighbulbs and fittings.
• Make use of daylight – clean windows, roof lights and light fittings to improve lighting levels.