by T J Neale

Created on: June 06, 2008   Last Updated: June 13, 2008

Inflation is always with us, but the recent rises in fuel bills have been a heavy burden on many households. Now is a great time to take a look at your lifestyle and find simple ways to conserve energy and save money in your home.

Get into some good habits.
* Switch off appliances when it is not in use.
* Unplug charging equipment once fully charged.

Completing these simple jobs will make a big impact on your bills.

* Replace your light bulbs with energy efficient ones.
* Ensure hot water tank is well insulated.
* Eliminate drafts from windows and doors.

Heating is a big component of power bills.
* Modernize heating controls
* Set thermostat as low as is comfortable. Do you need to be wearing only a t-shirt in the dead of winter?
* Keep radiators clear.
* Draw the curtains at dusk.
* Heating to goes off 30 minutes before you leave and come on 30 minutes before you return.

Cooling is often another major part of power bills.
* If you have air-conditioning, is it a modern energy efficient model?
* Set your thermostat as high as is comfortable.
* Do not place lamps or TV sets near your air-conditioning thermostat.
* Consider using an interior fan in conjunction with air conditioner.
* Plant trees or shrubs to shade air conditioning units, but not to block the airflow.
* Place your room air conditioner on the north side of the house.
* Do not set thermostat at a cooler setting than normal when you turn on air conditioner
* Keep the window coverings closed during the day.

Take care when cooking.
* Smallest possible saucepan and ring.
* Lids on saucepans.
* Prefer a pressure cookers, a steamer or a microwave.

How are you using your hot water?
* Turn the hot water tank thermostat down to 60 degrees c.
* Minimum amount of water in the kettle as needed.
* Prevent limescale build up.
* Shower not bath.

Good habits concerning the fridge and freezer.
* Fridge door open for minimum time possible.
* Allow food to cool before putting into fridge.
* Defrost fridge regularly.
* Keep appliances in a cool room.
* Fill empty voids with ice.

Good habits concerning the washing machine and dishwasher
* Only wash full loads or use a half-load program.
* Always use a low temperature or economy program.

There are no good habits concerning the tumble dryer.
* Use as little as possible.
* Dry clothes outside whenever possible.

It is not too hard to save energy and money in your home. Just get into some new habits.

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