5 Great Ways to Slash Your Energy Bills

The ideal home temperature for the average person is between 64 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. This range is generally described as “room temperature,” and it is under these conditions we can be both comfortable relaxing at home.

But with the changing seasons, and certainly the rise of global warming, it can be difficult to maintain this temperature year round. In the summer, it relies on a good air conditioning system to circulate cool air around the home, and in winter, you’ll need heating to stop you and your family from freezing. But as well as staying comfortable, you need to keep an eye on your energy bills. You’ve also got your electricity, your water, and your gas to think about too. Your energy usage can really add up and give you a sting in the form of your monthly utility bills.

So how can you save money on your home’s energy? Here are a few tips for cutting costs.

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Wear the right clothing

Don’t be too quick to turn up the heating or switch on the AC. If you’re just a little chilly, putting on a jumper and having a cup of tea might just do the job. The same goes when you’re hot. Consider taking a layer off or sitting outside in the shade with a fan and a cool drink. That’s not to say you shouldn’t use your appliances at all, but consider whether they are really necessary at all times.

Insulate your home

Proper insulation is the best way to protect your home from the elements in winter. It traps the warm air within your home and stops the cold from seeping in. There are plenty of insulation companies who can make sure your walls are properly padded to keep you cozy inside. Although installation will come at a cost, it could save you money on your energy bills in the long run.

Draft proof your home

Cold air can enter your home through any cracks in your window frames or gaps under doors. Using a caulk gun on your windows can make a big difference, and installing double-glazing can reduce heat loss by up to 75%. Sticking a draft excluder under a door is also effective, or if you don’t have one, a bundled up towel will do the same job.

Save water

We all use more water than we need. But over time, this excessive consumption really adds up. Start by taking shorter showers, and turning off the bathroom taps while you clean your teeth. Installing a dishwasher uses less water than washing by hand, and be more conservative when watering your plants outside.

Switch it off

Leaving plugs switched on at the wall uses a lot of electricity over time. Switching appliances off at the wall when not using them will cut your electricity bills, and only causes you the most minor of inconveniences. Make sure to turn off lights whenever you leave a room, and don’t leave devices like phones and laptops plugged in unnecessarily.