Are you a simple, savvy or super saver?

Save today, save tomorrow

Reducing CO2 emissions doesn’t require a lot of energy!

Follow Enact’s tips to save energy and money today, and save the planet tomorrow. Our tips are graded by the effort required and the resultant savings; simple saver, savvy saver, super saver. So…what type of saver are you?

Be A Simple Saver – no excuses, these tips can be actioned by you today!

• Minimise waste of packaging and materials - refuse, reduce, re-use, recycle.
• Switch off lights, don´t leave appliances on standby and remember not to leave appliances on charge unnecessarily.
• Switch off your second fridge except when it´s really needed.
• Switch to low greenhouse impact transport options like bicycle or public transport.
• Close your curtains – properly insulating your windows is a great way to save. Up to 40% of total heat loss in a home occurs through uncovered windows. Hang close fitting curtains, or invest in double glazing (see Super Saver tips for more details!)
• Dry clothes on the clothes line (rather than in the clothes dryer) – it won’t add a cent to your energy bill and generates zero greenhouse gases. Your clothes will be cleaner too – ultraviolet light kills bacteria and helps remove stains!
• Manage home heating and cooling by setting thermostats appropriately - a couple of degrees up in summer and a couple of degrees down in winter can make a big difference to your bill and wasted energy!

And for all you water babes…

• Is your water too hot? Your cylinder thermostat shouldn´t need to be set higher than 60°C/140°F.
• Cut hot water usage by taking shorter showers and washing your clothes in colder water - 30°/40° is plenty!
• If you´re not filling up the washing machine, tumble dryer or dishwasher, use the half-load or economy programme.
• Only boil as much water as you need (but remember to cover the elements if you´re using an electric kettle).
• A dripping hot water tap wastes energy and in one week wastes enough hot water to fill half a bath, so fix leaking taps and make sure they´re fully turned off!

Be A Savvy Saver – We know your type, you probably already do the latter Simple changes and are keen to step up your saving credentials! Follow these no brainer tips to be a top Savvy Saver!

• Install low energy light globes – replace your standard incandescent bulbs with energy efficient compact fluorescent light bulbs. They last much (6-10 times) longer, and best of all, they use about 80% less energy for the same light level! Contact us to see how we can help!
• Insulate your loft and cavity walls – insulation is one of the most effective ways to save on heating costs. A well insulated home maintains a temperate climate in your home all year round; warmer in winter, cooler in summer. Over 50% of energy (heat or cooler air) escapes through an un-insulated property’s roof and walls – cut your energy costs and reduce your households emission by installing insulation. Contact us to see how we can help!
• Cut hot water usage by installing a water-efficient low-flow showerhead. Contact us to see how we can help!
• Change your cooking methods – up to 90% of the energy used by ovens is wasted. Use alternatives such as microwaves, electric frying pans and pressure cookers. Changing from electric to gas cooking could save around half a tonne of greenhouse gas each year.
• Brush up on energy saving - eliminate draughts and wasted heat by installing a cheap, easy-to-fix brush or PVC seal on your exterior doors. Letterboxes and keyholes should be covered too.
• Draught dodgers - draughts also get in through gaps in floorboards and skirting boards, which also allow heat to escape in winter. Stop this waste by filling these gaps with newspaper, beading or sealant.

 

Be A Super Saver – Serious about saving? By putting in a little extra effort you can make a BIG difference!

• Install a gas or solar hot water system – when it’s time to replace your electric hot water system, consider a high efficiency gas or solar system. Doing this will reduce the average households annual energy bill and reduce greenhouse emissions.
• Always buy appliances with the most star ratings – when you’re buying a new appliance, it makes good sense to choose the model that uses the least energy while meeting your needs. It helps the environment and it can save you money too.
• Use a natural gas heater – to heat occupied living areas. When choosing a unit, make sure it’s the correct size for your living space. They are cheaper to run and save up to 75% of the greenhouse emissions of standard electric heaters.
• Keep twice as warm with double glazing - Double glazing cuts heat loss through windows by 50% and could cut your heating bill by around £90 a year.