Remember that cheap does not always mean energy efficient and the energy efficiency of electrical appliances vary considerable. Spending time looking and comparing energy efficient appliances will be cost effective in the long term. These appliances have energy ratings which show the approximate running costs:
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Fridge and Freezers are on 24 hours a day seven days a week this makes them the most hard working appliances in our kitchens. Buying an energy efficient fridge could save up to £45 a year on your electricity.
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Televisions, DVD's, stereos, computers and mobile phones should not be left on standby or on charge unnecessarily. However, operational manuals should be checked to make sure that this does not reset the appliance memory.
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Washing Machines wherever possible always wash a full load of use a half-load or economy programme if the machine has one. Use the low temperature programme as modern washing powders will be just as effective at lower temperatures.
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Cooking Choose the right size pan for the food and cooker (the base should just cover the cooking ring) and keep lids on when cooking. If using gas, the flame only needs to heat the bottom of the pan.
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Kettles heat the amount of water you really need and try to prevent over filling. if you have an electric kettle make sure you cover the elements, and Jug- kettles need less water as they have smaller elements.
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Domestic Lighting always turn off lights when you leave a room and adjust your curtains or blinds to let in as much light as possible during the day.
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Double Glazing traps air between two panes of glass, reducing heat loss, noise and condensation. Replacing the glazing in the whole house can be expensive, however, fitting double glazing in the rooms that cost you the most money to heat could reduce heat loss by up to 20 per cent.
