Below are some simple and low cost energy saving tips.

For futher information on energy efficiency, please visit the sites listed in the 'External links' section on this page.

Energy saving tips:

• Eliminate draughts and wasted heat by fixing a brush or PVC seal on your exterior doors.
• Stop draughts and heat escaping through floorboards and skirting boards by filling gaps beneath the carpet with newspaper, beading or sealant. 
• Make sure your windows are draught proofed. Secondary double glazing provides a low cost, short-term alternative to full double-glazing. 
• Is your heating too high? Turn your thermostat down by 1°C, and you could cut your heating bills by up to 10%. And if you're going away for winter, leave the thermostat on a low setting to provide protection from freezing at minimum cost. 
• Hot water doesn't need to be scalding. For most people, setting the cylinder thermostat at 60°C/140°F is fine for bathing and washing.
• Always put the plug in your basin or sink. Leaving hot water taps running with it removed is akin to washing money down the plughole. 
• Close your curtains at dusk to stop heat escaping through the windows.
• Always turn lights off when you leave a room and adjust your curtains or blinds to let in as much light as possible during the day.
• Televisions, videos, stereos, computers, and cordless phones: To cut down on wasted energy, avoid leaving them on standby and remember not to leave them on charge unnecessarily. But check the operation manual to make sure that this won't reset the appliance's memory.
• Don't leave the fridge door open for longer than necessary, as cold air will escape. Also allow hot or warm food and drink to cool down before putting it in.  
• Defrost your freezer regularly to keep it running efficiently and cheaply. If it tends to frost up quickly, check the door seal. 
• If you absolutely have to site your fridge or freezer next to a cooker or boiler, leave a good gap between them. 
• It’s best to do a full load of washing at a time, but if you can’t make sure you use a half-load or economy programme if your machine has one.  Modern washing powders are also effective at lower temperatures, so use the low temperature programme. 
• Don't put really wet clothes into a tumble dryer; wring them out or spin-dry them first. It's much faster, as well as saving money. 
• Try and use the low temperature programme on your dishwasher, and ensure you wash a full load.