Saving Energy at Home

Free advice on how to save energy and bills
Why we need to save energy
Our climate is changing because of the increase in CO2 (Carbon Dioxide) emissions in the atmosphere. Almost half of our carbon dioxide emissions come from the energy we use at homes. We can reduce the impact of CO2 emission by making simple adjustments to our way of life.
What can you do
We can change the way we use the energy and its impact on the environment. This will also benefit you by saving money on your energy bills.
Simple and easy tips to save energy at home
These tips and simple and easy - you will be surprised how small actions add up to substantial savings.
- Use energy saving light bulbs. Just one can save you £100 over the lifetime of the bulb - and they last up to 12 times longer than ordinary lightbulbs.
- A dripping hot water tap wastes energy and in one week wastes enough hot water to fill half a bath, so make sure they're fully turned off!
- Only boil as much water as you need.
- If you're not filling up the washing machine, tumble dryer or dishwasher, use the half-load or economy programme.
- Always turn electrical appliances off - don't leave them on standby and remember not to leave appliances on charge unnecessarily.
- Turn off the lights when you leave a room and adjust curtains and blinds to let in as much light as possible.
- Wring out or spin dry really wet washing before tumble drying - you will save money and it dries faster.
- Turn the central heating room thermostat down by 1°, this could cut your energy bills by 10 per cent;
Hackney Homes also has a dedicated company, Climate Energy who you can speak to for advice and guidance on saving energy.
Free advice on how to save on your energy bills
With rising fuel costs and winter on the way, Hackney Homes are working in partnership with Climate Energy to help advise residents how to save money and stay warm by offering:
- A free home visit offering independent advice on how to reduce fuel bills
- Installation of free water saving measures that can help to reduce your energy and water bills
- Information on special discounted fuel tariffs for people on certain benefits
- Details of grants to help with fuel debt for people who owe money to their fuel supplier
For a free home visit - call 0800 980 9270 now
You will get expert advice and assistance on keeping your home warm and reducing your fuel bills and is completely independent of any sales schemes. It could save you over £100 from your gas and electricity bills.
Climate Energy will have home visitors working in your area for a limited time only so please book early to avoid disappointment. Call 0800 980 9270 to book your visit, or for more information about the scheme.
For further information and advice you can visit the following websites:
The Energy Saving Trust
The Energy Saving Trust provides impartial advice and information as well as grants to encourage the most efficient use of energy in our homes and vehicles. Their consumer programme offers grants, advice and online tools to calculate your energy efficiency.
www.est.org.uk (opens in a new window)
Energy Watch
The independent watchdog for gas and electricity consumers, Energy Watch can provide free and impartial advice. They may event be able to help you take up your case if you feel you are being treated unfairly by your gas or electricity supplier. They can also help you find the cheapest energy supplier in your area.
www.energywatch.org.uk (opens in a new window)
Age Concern Hackney
Age Concern Hackney promotes the well-being of the elderly in Hackney and supports them in making later life a fulfilling and enjoyable experience.
Seasonal Health Interventions Network - SHINE
Visit the website to find out about the SHINE programme, where people can make self referrals via email and find out more about local support available in the borough.
www.hackney.gov.uk/shine.htm (opens in a new window)
Action on CO2
Find out how much CO2 you create and reduce your carbon footprint.
http://actonco2.direct.gov.uk/home.html (opens in a new window)
Directgov
Find out about environment and greener living
http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Environmentandgreenerliving/index.htm (opens in a new window)
Will energy companies help?
Some energy suppliers offer extra help for those in need such as discounts on your bill. You can call your supplier or visit their website to find out more.
- British Gas
0845 300 4531
http://www.house.co.uk (opens in a new window) - Scottish Power
0845 272 7111
http://www.theenergypeople.com (opens in a new window) - Npower
0800 632 632
http://www.npower.com (opens in a new window) - SeeBoard
0500 22 33 55
http://www.seaboard-energy.com (opens in a new window)
What is the greenest energy available?
- http://www.greenprices.com/uk (opens in a new window)
