Electricians are the best sources of advice when it comes to energy saving in the home

(28/07/2010)

The ECA has published its Energy Saving Guide covering a series of money and energy saving ideas which, when combined, can save households £400 a year.

1. Install energy saving light bulbs – These are cheap and easy to install and can save up to £100 a year.
2. Set your thermostat correctly – Setting the thermostat between 18 and 21 degrees centigrade can save up to £65 per year.
3. Install and use heating and hot water boiler controls – This can minimize wastage, for example by only heating water at times when it is needed most (morning and evening) – this can take £100 a year off your annual heating bill.
4. Upgrade your boiler – After the initial investment, changing from a G-rated system to a condensing boiler could save £128 annually.

The ECA’s resident expert on energy saving, Head of Technical Services, Giuliano Digilio, says: “When it comes to energy saving, it’s the little things that can add up in the householder’s favour. Taking a few simple and relatively inexpensive steps can be financially rewarding, particularly as it’s no secret that we face energy price hikes in the next few years. It’s surprising how easy it is to make relatively quick savings, which given the increasingly difficult economic times we live in, can make a considerable difference”, he said.

Giuliano adds: “Electricians are the best sources of advice when it comes to energy saving, but make sure you hire one who’s qualified. The ECA’s website provides links to competent electrical installers in your area. We also provide a Guarantee of Work Scheme that covers our members’ work. The aim is to ensure that consumers get the reassurance that they deserve when hiring an electrician.”

Additional savings can be made with these tips:
• Turn the light off – Encourage everyone to switch-off the lights when leaving a room; both simple and effective. Alternatively, you could always choose to install motion sensor lights.
• Consider updating appliances – Older, less efficient appliances could be costing you double in electricity charges so choose a model that has the European Union Energy Label or the European Eco-label to make sure you’re not paying over the odds.
• Make the switch – Choosing an A-rated model will be more economical to run and better for the environment.
• Choose your tumble-dryer carefully – Making sure to choose a high energy rated model. A Which? survey compared an A and C grade dryer and found the C grade cost £67.38 more per year to run.
• Fully load the machine – Both dishwashers and washing machines are more efficient when operating with a full load. A Which? survey found most modern dishwashers actually use less water than washing-up by hand.
• Remember to switch-off – Leaving appliances on stand-by means they’re still using electricity so turn them off at the plug when not in use.

Related categories:  Energy efficiency   Lamps