Save energy and save money |
There are many ways that you can save money and also reduce your carbon emissions. Just follow these simple easy steps:- - Insulating your home can cut your energy use by half.
- Lights can use up to half the electricity in your home, switch off unwanted lights or change to energy saving bulbs to cut your electricity bill. Many shops now sell energy bulbs at very low prices.
- Turning down your thermostat by 1 degree can save up to 10% off your heating bill
- Switch off all your appliances at the wall before going to bed at night. Many electrical items continue to use electricity even while their off if connected to an outlet.
- Using your oven or microwave as a clock uses up a huge amount of energy and if you think about it, isn't really necessary. A battery powered wall clock uses much less power.
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Check out possible savings at comparison websites |
Paying too much for gas and electricity? Check out possible savings at comparison websites, such as UK Power or contact your energy provider as many of them have special schemes. For more information you can also visit Go Warm or call The Energy Saving Trust on 0800 512012. |
Reduce petrol costs |
- Cars are not rated by efficiency A-G so choose one near to band A and you'll save money on your fuel bills and car tax.
- You can cut your fuel costs by 10%, simply by avoiding heavy braking, changing gear less and avoiding high revs.
- An estimated 50% of car tyres on the road are under-inflated so keep your tyres pumped up at the correct pressure, as soft tyres waste fuel and wear out quicker.
- Driving in the highest gear possible without labouring the engine is a fuel-efficient way of driving. Travelling at 37mph in third gear uses 25% more fuel than at the same speed in fifth gear.
- The use of air conditioning increases fuel consumption by 10% so open up the windows and let the fresh air in.
- Every time you stop then start again in a traffic queue, the engine uses more fuel. Keep an eye on the traffic ahead and slow down early by gently lifting your foot off the accelerator while keeping the car in gear. This way, the traffic may have started moving again by the time you approach the vehicle in front, so you can then change gear and be on your way.
- Season tickets on public transport offer big savings, or buy day saver/day rover tickets.
- Ensure you get the cheapest priced petrol where possible, this can be check at websites such as - www.petrolprices.com
- Try car sharing for your journey to and from work. Visit Share Smarter for further information.
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Free loft and cavity wall insulation |
You may be eligible for free loft and cavity wall insulation if you are receiving certain benefits or over 70. Contact Dennis Reeves, Energy Advisor at Middlesbrough Environment City, on 01642 811306. |
