Explore the house to see how you could save money and save energy in your home. You may be surprised by just how easy it can be. For each Hotspot, we'll tell you whether its no cost, low cost or a little more of an investment using these symbols:
Give your tank a hug
A well fitting jacket for your hot water tank could save you £45 a year.
Get good roof and wall insulation
It's an investment, but it works, especially the thick stuff. And there may be government grants or loans to help you pay for it – call our advice line to fins out more.
Short Showers
Try showering for 2 minutes less; get it down to under 5 minutes and it will save on heat and water.
Reduce your toilet flush
Get a 'toilet hippo' for the cistern – water companies offer them for free, and they reduce the water used per flush by 50%.
Stop running the tap
Only run the water at the start and end of brushing your teeth. And use the plug not running water to wash.
Switch off at the plug
Appliances drain power when on standby, especially TVs – they can use almost as much as when they're on. Reach for the plug and you could save between £50 - £90 a year.
Double Glazed is best
If you've not got double glazing, you may be eligible for government grants or loans to help get it installed. Or try DIY secondary glazing; its easier than you think, kits cost about £20 and all you need is a hairdryer!
Close curtains at dusk
Simple but effective at keeping out drafts. Make sure you're not covering radiators though
Wash at 30 degrees
This will use 40% less energy than washing at 40, and save you about £13 per year. Make sure the washer is full too as this is the most energy efficient way to wash.
Keep your fridge 3/4 full
¾ full is the most efficient way to run your fridge or fridgefreezer, allowing air to circulate around the back. And check if it has an A++ energy efficiency rating – you could save between £7 and £37 a year if you choose the highest rating when its time to upgrade.
Get energy saving bulbs - and switch them off!
energy saving bulbs and LEDs are cheaper and better now, and each will save you between £2 - £9 a year in power. But dont forget to switch them off when you leave the room.
Use radiator thermostats and keep them uncovered
These allow you to change the temperature individually, so save you money by heating only the rooms you're using. And don't cover them or the thermostats won't work and the heat cant get out.
Draught-Proof Doors
Use a draft excluder and cover letter boxes and key holes. Get insulating around the edges of doors using low cost DIY kits which are widely available.
