British Gas has advised customers to make the most of a ‘free’ energy-saving method that not only takes just a couple of seconds to carry out but could help save on bills ‘every morning’.
With months of cold winter weather ahead, many households are seeking ways to lower their energy costs, reports MirrorOnline.
Fortunately, British Gas has shared ‘six quick wins to save energy and money‘ to help people ‘reduce’ their energy bill.
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Posting on YouTube, the energy supplier shared ‘how to make small changes to reduce your energy use and save money on your energy bills.’
In the video, British Gas told customers they could be making a mistake if they keep their curtains shut, thinking they’ll be saving money by blocking the cold out.
The advice explained: “Curtains are great insulators, but they can keep heat out, too.”
Explaining the ‘quick’ hack, it said: “Throw them open in the morning and let the sun naturally warm and light your home.
Then draw them again when it starts to get dark.”
Closing your curtains at night can really help save on energy costs by keeping the heat in your house.
Windows let a lot of heat escape, and when you pull the curtains or blinds shut in the evening, it makes a barrier that stops warm air from getting out, which means you won’t need to use the heater as much.
The advice continued: “To keep the day’s heat from escaping, give your tumble dryer a break.
The general rule is that the bigger the appliance, the more energy it uses.
“Tumble dryers are particularly power-hungry, so dry your clothes outside if you can. Even in winter, you might be surprised how quickly a light breeze and a ray of sunshine can work wonders on your wet clothes or hang them on an airer inside when the heating’s on.
“Say no to standby.
“Another simple way to reduce your energy usage is to stop leaving electronics on standby.
“They’re still sapping electricity.
“So next time you’ve finished on your computer or done watching TV, turn them off at the plug.
“It all adds up.”
The video also recommended turning down the heating by one degree.
“One degree can make all the difference.
“To keep heating costs down, your thermostat is a great place to start.
“Lowering the temperature by just one degree could reduce your heating bill by up to 10%.
“And while you’re at it, why not put your heating on a timer? That way you won’t waste energy while you’re tucked up in bed or out and about during the day.”
With sunset currently taking place at around 4pm during the latter part of November, closing curtains at this time could help to save money as the nights get darker.
Sharing another tip, British Gas said: “Stay cool and energy efficient.
“One thing you can’t turn off is your fridge freezer, but for maximum energy efficiency, set your fridge to five degrees and your freezer to -18 degrees.
“It’s also a good idea to defrost your freezer regularly. This will keep your food fresh without wasting unnecessary energy or money.”
The experts also recommended using a smart meter. “Save with smart meters,” the advice said. “If you don’t have them yet, now could be a good time to switch to smart meters.
“They’re fitted for free and show you how much energy you’re using in real time, so you can see how you are using energy at home and work out other simple ways to save.”
