A lot of these electricity saving tips cost nothing to implement. and may seem obvious but from experience most people ignore them and waste money unnecessarily. Some only require getting into the habit of thinking is there a good reason why this is switched on.
Switch Off Lights When A Room Is Empty
A hundred watt light bulb switched on for one hour every day costs around £1 a quarter to run.
Switch Of Unnecessary Items
How often have you left the room for a couple of hours leaving the television, computer, etc on? How often have you gone out shopping on a Saturday leaving things switched on? A television left on for two hours a day can cost between £1 and £6 a quarter to run depending on the age and size. A computer left on for two hours a day can cost around £2 a quarter to run.
Don't Leave Items On Standby
Do you switch things off at the wall or just leave them on standby - most appliances don't need to be left on standby. The difference can be huge. A computer left on standby can cost between £1 & £3 a quarter. Ten items left on standby each taking 2 watts cost around £4 a quarter. Switch off cookers and microwaves wherever possible (resetting the clock is a small price to pay).
When Buying Replacement Appliances Compare The Power Consumption
If you need to replace something take the power consumption into account when comparing different makes. Be wary of the energy efficiency labels - they don't take into account standby current and relative size (when comparing two items).
Turn The Water Temperature Down 5 Degrees
If you heat your water using electricity try turning the temperature down 5 degrees you probably won't even notice the difference. If you don't try turning it down even further.
Turn The Washing Machine Down To 30C
Modern detergents work fine at this temperature and the saving in energy is worth it.
Don't Use The Tumble Drier If The Weather Is Suitable For Hanging Clothes Out
Tumble driers use a lot of electricity.
When You Go Away For More Than A Day Switch Off Everything You Can
Apart from things related to security switch off everything you can such as immersion heaters, central heating (if the weather is not too cold), Cookers, Microwaves, etc - you may be surprised by the savings.
Don't Leave Mobile Phone Chargers Switched On When Not In Use
If possible run the charger(s) overnight to take advantage of cheap rate electricity BUT remember to use a timeswitch as they only take 2 to 3 hours to charge.
Turn Air Conditioner Thermostats Up A Few Degrees And Keep Cooling Surfaces Clean And Free From Dust
Doing this can save a lot of energy. It also helps if you clean the filters regularly. Dirty heat exchangers (radiators) need a regular clean to keep the efficiency high. Make sure the air flow through the unit is not restricted.
Keep The Fridge And Freezer Full And Cooling Surfaces Clean And Free From Dust
Use sealed containers to fill any unused space. Dirty heat exchangers (radiators) on the back need a regular clear to keep the efficiency high. Defrost the freezer regularly and don't put hot food in the fridge. Keep the fridge and freezer away from cookers and radiators.
If You Have More Than One Wireless Telephone Replace One WIth A Conventional Telephone
The chargers for these phones can cost up to £1 a quarter each to run continuously.
Only Use Just Enough Water To Cover Vegetables When Cooking
The more water you use the more energy is required to heat it up.
Only Boil As Much Water As You Need In The Kettle
Filling the kettle full each time you boil it can waste around £3 a quarter.
Switch Off Extractor Fans As Soon As They Have Done Their Job
It's easy to forget to turn them off. Keep the vent flaps clean and check they open and close easily to minimise back pressure.