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Tips on how to save electricity at home

Jan 23, 2024
Turning the thermostat down
With energy prices increasing significantly, knowing how to save electricity at home is vital. From simple things like turning off the lights to investing in high-quality insulation, here are our top tips for lowering your energy bills and carbon footprint.

• Turn your thermostat down by 1 degree
• Switch tech off standby
• Turn off lights
• Opt for a smart meter
• Avoid using the tumble dryer
• Swap your bath for a shower
• Draught-proof windows and doors
• Invest in high-quality insulation

1. Turn your thermostat down by 1 degree

According to the Energy Saving Trust, this simple yet effective trick can help you cut your heating bill by 10%. We recommend setting a timer on your thermostat for the heating to come on only when needed. You can warm just the rooms you use instead of the whole house. 
 

2. Switch tech off standby

Switching your devices off standby can help you save up to £60 a year on electricity, according to the Energy Saving Trust. You can switch most appliances off at the plug without altering their programming, but follow the manufacturer's instructions if unsure. 
 
A standby saver or smart plug can turn off all appliances in one go, so you won’t have to worry about them.
 

3. Turn off lights

As simple as it may sound, turning off the lights is a great way to save electricity at home. A good habit is switching them off when you leave the room, helping you save up to £25 a year.
 
Consider replacing your lightbulbs with LED bulbs – more efficient and durable.
 

4. Opt for a smart meter

Smart meters measure your gas and electricity usage and send the recordings to your supplier via a remote connection. This way, you can monitor your energy consumption and lower costs. 
 

5. Avoid using the tumble dryer 

Tumble dryers are handy but require a lot of energy. Drying your clothes on racks outside or inside can help you save up to £60 a year. 
 

6. Swap your bath for a shower

We all know the benefits of a hot bath, but we don’t consider how much energy it requires. We recommend swapping your bath for a 4-minute shower, saving you up to £17 a year. 
 

7. Draught-proof windows and doors

Draughts make your home lose heat more quickly. Draught-proofing your windows and doors could help you save up to £50 a year, while draught-proofing your chimney could save up to £70.
 
Professional draught-proofing costs around £270, but you can opt for DIY installation if you're on a budget. 
 

8. Invest in high-quality insulation

Around 25% of heat loss in the home occurs through the roof and 35% through the walls. This means that high-quality insulation is essential to save electricity. 
 
Cavity walls are great for preventing heat loss through your walls. They're made of two walls with a gap in between, which you fill by injecting insulation material from the outside. The Energy Saving Trust estimates that cavity walls can help you save up to £300 a year. Another valid alternative is installing a loft, saving up to £285 a year. 
 
Saving energy is easy when you buy your new David Wilson home. Our energy-efficient properties boast argon-filled double glazing and highly thermally efficient insulation fitted as standard. They offer ample living and dining space, perfect for all homebuyers. 
 
Browse our collection of 2, 3, 4, and 5 bedroom homes and discover unique homebuying offers to help you move.
 

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