What is energy efficiency?

Energy efficiency means getting the most out of the energy we use. This can be done simply by switching off lights when you leave a room or not leaving your TV on standby. Not only is this good for the environment but it can also save you money.  See our top ten tips for more ideas and the Energy Saving Trust website (http://www.energysavingtrust.org.uk/).

Where does our energy go?

CENTRAL HEATING (SAVE £15-£30 PER YEAR)

If you are too warm, turn down the thermostat by 1 degree.  This can cut up to 10% off your fuel bills.

HOT WATER (SAVE UP TO £10 PER YEAR)

The hot water thermostat should be set at 60c/140f which is adequate for most people for bathing and washing.

Always remember to put the plug in a basin or sink.

CURTAINS (SAVE £15-£30 PER YEAR)

Close your curtains at dusk to stop the heat escaping through the windows.

LIGHTS

Always remember to switch off a light when leaving a room and adjust curtains and blinds to let in as much light as possible.

TELEVISIONS, VIDEOS, COMPUTERS, CORDLESS PHONES AND ELECTRIC TOOTHBRUSHES

Avoid leaving appliances on standby and remember not to leave appliances on charge unnecessarily.  Check the operator's manual to make sure that this won't impact on the appliance memory performance.

Leaving your television on standby uses 80% of the electricity used when it is fully switched on.

FRIDGES/FREEZERS

Do not leave the fridge/freezer door open longer than necessary.

Do not put hot water or warm food straight into the fridge - allow it to cool first.

Defrost your freezer regularly.

Check that the door seals are working properly.

Do not put your fridge/freezer next to the cooker or boiler.  If it is really necessary then make sure that there is a good space between them.

WASHING MACHINES AND TUMBLE DRYERS

Always wait until you have a full load before using your washing machine.  If this is not possible use the half-load or economy programme, if your machine has one.

Try to use the low temperature programme, unless you have very dirty clothes to wash.  Modern washing powders often work just as well at lower temperatures.

Don't put really wet clothes into a tumble dryer - wring them out or spin them first.

DISHWASHERS

When possible use the low temperature setting, unless you have very dirty dishes.

POTS AND PANS

The base of the saucepan should just cover an electric cooking ring.

The flames on a gas ring should not come up the side of the pan.

Do not use more water than you need, not only does this waste energy, it also spoils the food.

KETTLES

Do not overfill the kettle just for one drink.  Heat the amount of water that you really need.

If you are using an electric kettle make sure that you cover the element.

Jug-type kettles need less water as they have small elements.

If you would like to find out more about home energy efficiency please contact: 

Sovereign Kingfisher Customer Services
0800 988 4858

HVHS Repairs Service
0800 970 5299