With the cost of living crisis affecting most UK households, looking at ways to reduce your electrical energy usage is essential. There are changes you can make that will have a difference, whether it’s a few big things or lots of little ones, from using LED lighting to ensuring your systems are well maintained.
Here are some great ideas to get you started.
Access grant schemes if you’re eligible
If you’re struggling to find ways to lower your electricity bills, ensure you access all the benefits and grants you’re entitled to. This includes those who have reached state pension age, have low income or disabilities. The Government has also announced the Energy Bills Support Scheme, giving every household £400 off their energy bill. The Citizens Advice website has tonnes of information about the help and support available.
Change your lighting
Have you thought about upgrading your lighting to LED and energy-saving options? This will help to reduce your property’s overall energy use while lasting much longer than traditional bulbs. LED lights come in many different forms, whether you’re updating strip lights, changing bulbs or installing new outdoor lighting.
Use electrical appliances more efficiently
If you want to decrease your electrical energy usage, it’s worth considering all the different ways to use your appliances more efficiently. For example, freezers actually use less energy when they’re full as there’s less air to keep cool, so why not combine this with batch-cooking meals to help reduce overall household expenditure at the same time? Other energy guzzlers are appliances like tumble dryers, so air dry when you can or use an electric clothes airer.
Install smart home technology
Did you know smart home installations can save you money? This type of technology is a great way to create a cost-effective, energy-efficient system around your property. Everything from your boiler and lighting to electrical wiring and EV chargers can be managed and controlled using an app on your smartphone or tablet. This will allow you to stop wasting so much electrical energy, especially if you install a smart thermostat.
Ensure your electrical installations remain in good condition
If your installations don’t run efficiently, you could be using more energy than you need to. Booking an up-to-date EICR service is a good way to keep on top of your system and ensure it remains in safe working condition. A registered electrical contractor will check everything from your switches and sockets to cabling and consumer units. Any faults or deterioration will be highlighted in the report.
For landlords and businesses, EICRs are required within every 5-year period – or sooner in some high-risk settings. In homes, they’re recommended every ten years, or sooner if you’re completing renovations or moving house.
Need more advice? Speak to MD Bespoke Solutions
Want to check your electrics are working as efficiently as possible? Speak to the team at MD Bespoke Solutions. Our electrical contractors work across London, Surrey and beyond, coming out to Balham, Dulwich and surrounding areas.
For a free quote and advice, get in touch.
