As the warm weather comes (and goes, and comes again,) it’s natural to want to indulge in some seasonal activities, especially on those days when the weather is on our side! However, the rise in energy consumption during the summer can significantly impact your electricity bills, potentially leading to unexpected debt.
Here are some effective energy-saving techniques you can try out at home during the warmer months to keep your finances in check, along with some very cool money saving numbers from the Energy Saving Trust!
Dry Clothes Outside
With the warm weather and fresh air, summer is the perfect time to dry your clothes outside. You can save up to £50 annually in GB and £75 in NI by line-drying your laundry. Not only does this reduce your energy consumption, but it also extends the life of your clothes! If outdoor drying isn’t an option, consider drying clothes on indoor racks in well-ventilated rooms.
Draught-Proof Your Home
Good insulation isn’t just about keeping your home warm in winter; it’s equally important for keeping it cool in summer!
Draught-proofing windows and doors can help maintain a consistent indoor temperature, making your home more comfortable during those intense heat waves. Draught-proofing can save around £80 per year in GB and £100 in NI on your energy bills. There are DIY options that are cost-effective and relatively simple to implement (we can help with this!)
Top Up Your Loft Insulation
Proper loft insulation is critical in regulating your home’s temperature, year round.
Ensuring your loft insulation meets modern standards can prevent your home from becoming a heat trap during the summer months. Topping up your loft insulation can help you save around £40 annually in GB and £45 in NI. This investment not only reduces energy costs but also improves your home’s overall comfort and reduces the need for extra cooling devices.
Turn Off Lights
One simple yet helpful habit to develop is turning off lights when they’re not in use.
During summer, long daylight hours mean you can rely more on natural light. If you’re investing in outdoor lights for those pleasant summer evenings, ensure you’re not leaving indoor lights on unnecessarily. This small change can save around £7 annually in Great Britain (GB) and £30 in Northern Ireland (NI). To further cut costs, consider replacing all the lights in your home with energy-efficient LED bulbs, which can save even more on your energy bills.
![turning off light switch to save energy](https://applyforleap.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/close-up-hand-turning-off-grey-light-switches-with-texture-background-scaled-e1721809342935-300x198.jpg)
Switch Off Standby
Many of us are guilty of leaving electronics on standby mode, but this small oversight can add up.
By turning off appliances completely when they are not in use, you can save around £45 a year in GB and £70 in NI. Most electrical appliances can be turned off at the plug without affecting their settings. If you have multiple devices, consider using a standby saver to turn them all off at once.
By incorporating these energy-saving techniques during the summer, you can significantly reduce your energy consumption, lower your utility bills, and avoid mounting debt.
For more personalised advice and support, consider booking a LEAP energy advice call. By making a few small proactive changes, you can enjoy summer without the stress of high energy bills.