I'm an Electrician and here's 15 simple ways to slash your energy bills this winter

belfastlive.co.uk
·2-min read
Nine electricity myths busted - from leaving heating on low all day to kettle error
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As the chillier months approach and heating systems are put to the test, many households are preparing for a spike in energy bills. With increasing costs putting pressure on finances, it's an ideal time to embrace energy-saving habits.

Chris Madikian, an electrical expert at The Local Electrician, offers practical advice to help reduce your energy expenses.

Chris said: "Saving on electricity bills doesn’t always require drastic lifestyle changes or expensive upgrades."

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"It’s about understanding how energy is used in your home and making smarter choices, like sealing drafts, using appliances efficiently, and embracing technologies like smart plugs or LED bulbs. These small adjustments can lead to substantial savings, especially as energy costs continue to rise." .

Kitchen strategies

  • Batch cooking, which not only minimises the time your oven is running, thus reducing energy usage, but also makes reheating - a far more energy-efficient process - possible. .

  • Unplugging appliances such as microwaves and coffee machines that use energy even when not in use can save you up to £100 annually. Instead of relying on energy-consuming microwaves, plan ahead and allow frozen items to defrost naturally. .

  • Temperature tactics like investing in a smart thermostat can help you understand and modify your heating and cooling habits for maximum savings. .

  • Ceiling fans should be set to run counterclockwise in summer for cooling and clockwise in winter to redistribute warm air. .

  • Sealing gaps in doors and windows is one of the simplest and most cost-effective ways to maintain a stable home temperature. .

  • Lighting smarts involve switching to LED bulbs, which can reduce lighting costs by 75%. .Instead of lighting up an entire room, use task lighting like desk lamps for specific tasks. .

Laundry and cleaning tips

  • Cutting laundry costs: Washing clothes in cold water reduces water-heating expenses without compromising cleanliness.

  • Ditching the tumble dryer: Avoiding the dryer can save over £100 per year; consider using more affordable options like heated clothes airers and dehumidifiers.

  • Maximising loads: Run dishwashers and washing machines only when full to ensure efficiency.

Smart solutions:

  • Smart plugs allow you to automate and schedule device usage, preventing unnecessary power consumption.

  • Eco modes: Many appliances, including dishwashers and fridges, have energy-saving settings that significantly reduce consumption.

Lifestyle adjustments:

  • Utilising natural light: Relying on sunlight during the day reduces the need for artificial lighting.

  • Taking shorter showers: Heating water contributes substantially to energy bills; reducing shower time by a few minutes can lead to noticeable savings.

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