Think green, live clean - be energy efficient at home
Whether you rent or own, being more energy efficient at home can lead to valuable savings and a lower carbon footprint. Start living cleaner and greener today.
Why energy efficiency matters
Homes account for around 20% of the UK's carbon emissions, mostly from heating and electricity. By improving energy efficiency, we can reduce our impact on the environment and help West Sussex move toward a more sustainable future.
Every small change adds up - and your home is a great place to start.
Simple steps to save energy
Switch to LED bulbs
LEDs use up to 80% less energy than traditional bulbs and last much longer.
Draught-proof your home
Seal gaps around windows, doors, and chimneys to keep warmth in and cold out.
Use energy efficient appliances
Appliances have a rating from A to G, with A being the most efficient, and G being the least. These ratings are dependent on the size of the appliance; so, a large dishwasher with an A label could use more electricity than a small dishwasher with a G rating.
Therefore, it's best to choose the size you need and then look for the best energy label, rather than searching for the best energy label alone.
As more efficient appliances use less electricity than less efficient ones, this cuts both your carbon footprint and your electricity bill.
But don't go out replacing all appliances in your home for energy efficient ones - wait until you need to replace them to avoid waste and the carbon footprint and environmental impact of the creation of the items.
Turn your thermostat down by one degree
The Energy Saving Trust says dropping the temperature on your thermostat by one degree could save £100 a year on average for a typical home.
The World Health Organisation suggests that a temperature of 18oC is enough for most adults, or 20oC for the old, young, or unwell.
This will also help lower your carbon footprint! Turning down your thermostat by one degree can reduce your carbon pollution by up to 340kg*.
Use smart thermostats
Smart heating controls help you heat your home only when needed, saving energy and money.
Layer up before turning up
Instead of cranking the heating, wear warm layers and use blankets to stay cosy.
Unplug unused devices
Even on standby, electronics use power. Unplug chargers, TVs, and kitchen appliances when not in use.
Wash smart - washing machines and dishwashers
Wet appliances such as washing machines and dishwashers are responsible for about 10% of a household's energy consumption, but there are a few ways you can reduce your energy consumption:
- use these appliances less frequently - only use them when you need to
- set them to wash at lower temperatures - this requires less energy to heat the water, lowering your energy consumption and carbon footprint. Use your washing machine at 30°C
- only run full loads
By reducing the amount of washes you do, you not only save money on your energy bill and reduce your carbon footprint but also reduce your water usage, and air-dry clothes when possible.
*Calculate your carbon footprint here: WWF Footprint Calculator
To get additional advice or see if you may be eligible for financial help, click here.
Energy saving - West Sussex County Council