We all want to spend less on our energy bills and use less energy. Whether it's adding insulation or giving your radiators a clean, there are lots of small changes that can have big financial rewards.
Robert Stringer, energy expert at Energia, one of Ireland’s leading energy providers, has revealed six easy ways to save energy around the house that can really make a difference to the monthly energy bill.
Insulate your home
Proper insulation is one of the most effective ways to save energy. Poorly insulated homes can lose up to 30 per cent of their heat through the walls and roof. By investing in quality insulation, you can significantly reduce heat loss, keeping your home warmer during winter and cooler in the summer.
Attic insulation is one of the most cost-effective upgrades you can make to your home. And with grants of up to €1,300 available for a semi-detached, this could cover between 50 and 70 per cent of the total cost. This could lead to savings of €600 or more a year on heating bills, depending on your home's size and insulation type.
Switch to smart lighting
If you're still using traditional light bulbs, it’s time for an upgrade. LED bulbs use up to 90 per cent less energy than regular light bulbs and can last up to 25 times longer. Swapping just five bulbs in your home could save you €86 a year on electricity bills. The addition of smart lighting systems, like motion sensors and timers, allows you to save energy by ensuring lights are only on when needed.
Don’t overfill the kettle
We all know that in Ireland, tea isn’t just a drink, it’s a way of life. Whether you're a Barry’s fan or swear by Lyons, boiling the kettle for a proper cuppa is serious business. If you’re just making tea for yourself or your mammy who popped over for a chat, only boil what you need.
Clean your radiators
Over time, dust and dirt can build up, making it harder for the heat to spread around your home. This can reduce your radiator’s heat by up to 25 per cent, meaning your heating has to work harder and costs you more, to keep you warm. A quick clean-up can improve your radiator’s efficiency and save you a chunk off your bills.
Lay down your carpet
Carpets aren’t just cosy; they can also help keep your home warmer for longer. Up to 10 per cent of heat can escape through floors that aren’t insulated. Adding carpet with a thick underlay helps hold in the heat, so you don’t need to turn the heating on as much.
Let the sunshine in
Keeping your curtains and blinds open during the day helps bring in natural light and warmth, reducing the need for artificial lighting. Using natural light and heat can cut your lighting costs by up to 60 per cent and can also help warm your home naturally.
