Energy Saving Tips for Your Home

Thermostat

• Reduce the temperature of your thermostat one hour before sleep/departure
• Reduce the temperature during the day by one degree
• General area’s like the hall, staircases, empty rooms and storing spaces do not need to be heated or at least should be at a lower temperature

Windows/Doors

• If your house has no double-glazing, heat will be lost through the windows. Therefore at least close the curtains during the evening to keep the energy inside
• Keep the doors closed and use weather strips to prevent draughts

Heating System

• Maintain your heating system and boiler regularly. Incorrect settings will reduce its efficiency: check its manual regarding maintenance
• Put silver foil behind radiators to reflect the heat back into the room

Insulation

• If you have a loft space, make sure it is insulated

Ventilation

• Ventilation is a must, however too much will result in unnecessary loss of energy

• A gas cooker/furnace is the lowest energy consuming tool for cooking. The flames ensure a direct warming of your pans. Therefore you will control the cooking process in the best way. Do not forget: Top chefs always cook on gas
• Cook as much as possible with a lid. Cooking without a lid consumes three times more energy
• Use as little water as possible during cooking.  Because what you do not use, you do not need to heat up. You will save energy

• Heating water with LPG will use almost half of the energy vs. heating with electricity
• Install a water saving showerhead. It consumes up to 40% less water and energy vs. an ordinary showerhead, whereas the same comfort remains
• Pay attention where you install your water heating devices. The best is as close as possible to the point where you use the water and use as thin as possible piping to ensure fast delivery of warm water without wasting too much cold water
• Do not forget to insulate warm-water pipes that pass unheated area’s and do not forget crawl spaces and cellars

• Switch your electrical equipment off completely when you do not use them (TV, video, HiFi, PC, etc.).  Avoid using the stand-by mode
• Unplug your charging devices when not used (Mp3, GSM, etc.)
• Use energy saving light bulbs
• Switch off any unused lights
• Make sure your dishwasher is always full before putting it on
• If you use a washing machine for your laundry – turn it to 40 degrees rather than 60