9 Easy Ways To Save Money And Energy

Across the UK right now households are starting to feel the pinch of rising energy costs. With that not looking like it's set to ease anytime soon we've been thinking of ways to save money. We've also realised that there's a direct correlation between saving money and saving energy, meaning you can make a difference to the planet as well as your pocket. 

9 Tips To Help You Reduce Your Energy Costs

1. Turn off Unnecessary Lights

It's an obvious one and growing up you've likely been told by your parents hundreds of times to "turn that light off". While it seemed like a chore as a child, it's actually the easiest way you can save money on your energy bills. 

2. Switch To LED Lighting

Once your lightbulbs wear out, replace them with LED alternatives. These bulbs not only save you money daily, as well of course energy, they also last a lot longer, meaning fewer replacement costs. 

3. Unplug Your Electronics

IF you're not using electronics such as games consoles, printers, TVs etc unplug rather than switching off. It's surprising how much energy is actually wasted keeping these things plugged in. 

4. Rearrange Your Furniture

If you have any bulky furniture in front of radiators, they're sucking up all the heat you're paying for. Instead, the front of the radiators should be as clear as possible. If you don't have the option for a move around, pull the furniture away a little more to allow more airflow.  

5. Reduce Your Cooking Times

If you're cooking on the stove top, pans should be covered where possible to retain heat and therefore, cook things faster. Batch cooking is another great option as you'll need less energy to reheat your meal than cooking again from scratch. 

6. Wash With Cooler Water

Washing machines work by heating the water they're using. By reducing the temperature you wash at even by 10 degrees, you'll be saving energy. Most laundry detergent works just as well at low temperatures. 

7. Use Less Water

Water usage costs can be reduced easily with just a few small changes. Shorter showers, fewer baths and saving your washing up for one load for example. You can also save rainwater in just about any large container. This can be used to water plants or wash the car etc. 

8. Seal Any Drafts

If you know you have a draft creeping through a door or window, try and seal it. If you can't seal it completely, use draft excluders or curtains to reduce it. As well as throwing cold air into your home, it can also suck out the heat. 

9. Get Cosy

Instead of popping the heating when the temperature drops in the evening, get cosy with a blanket or throw and don't forget to turn down the lights. The perfect excuse for a cosy evening in. 

Do you have any money-saving tips to share? Drop them in the comments.