Energy saving - personal options

, < Sustainable energy

See also the Energy Savings Trust's 20 per cent campaign via www.saveyour20percent.co.uk.

Energy saving measures households can take include:

1. Cavity wall insultation
Around 33% of the heat lost in your home is through the walls, so insulating them can be the most cost-effective way to save energy in the home.

2. Boilers
If a boiler is over 15 years old, it's probably time it was replaced with a new energy efficient one. High efficiency condensing boilers are the most energy efficient and will save you around a third on your heating bills straight away.

3. Freezer
Fridge freezers are the most hardworking appliances in our kitchens .To help cut costs, don't leave the door open longer than necessary, as cold air will escape. Avoid putting hot food into the fridge, defrost the freezer regularly and check the door seals are working properly.

4. Energy Saving appliances
Look out for the energy saving recommended logo when you're buying new electrical appliances.

5. Hot water tank
An insulating jacket for hot water tanks only costs a few pounds and pays for itself within months.

6. Close your curtains
As the days get chillier, closing your curtains at dusk will stop heat escaping through windows.

7. Buy an energy efficient light bulbs
Priced from just £3.50, energy efficient light bulbs last up to 12 times longer and for each bulb you fit, you can save up to £7 on annual electricity bills.

8. Tackle draughts
Stop draughts and heat escaping by filling gaps under skirting boards with newspaper, beading or mastic sealant. That's around £10 off your bills every year!

9. Double glazing can cut heat loss by 50%
Double-glazing cuts heat loss through windows by 50% and could cut your heating bill by over £60 a year.

10. Be switched on - take a Home Energy Check...
For a report on how much energy can be saved in your own home, fill out the Energy Saving Trust's online home energy check. Alternatively, you can obtain a paper version by calling your local Energy Efficiency Advice Centre (EEAC) on 0800 512 012. Our staff at your local EEAC can also provide you with free, impartial advice on how to make your home more energy efficient and talk to you about the grants available in your area to implement energy efficient measures.

Source: Defra news release