LET'S SAVE ENERGY
If you are into sustainability, you probably already know (and follow?) all of the good advice out there. Below we share some quick and easy wins, but also some that need a bit more consideration before you invest in them. Get in touch if you'd like some in-person advice from our energy champion.
SIMPLE CHANGES
POWER UP YOUR ENERGY SUPPLIER
Consider switching to a green energy supplier like Octopus or Good Energy to reduce your carbon footprint and support renewables. Check out Which? for an up-to-date report on the most sustainable energy suppliers in the country.
AIR-DRYING FOR THE WIN!
That tumble dryer can be a lifesaver sometimes, but it's also a significant energy consumer. Whenever possible, try embracing the good old clothes rack or washing line. Fresh air is free and great for your clothes! If drying indoors, ensure good ventilation to avoid condensation and potential black mold. A good option for the colder months would be to get a dehumidifier, which comes at a cost, but is still much, much cheaper than running a tumble dryer.
COSY UP AT DUSK
Notice a chill by your windows at dusk? Closing blinds and curtains is like a cosy blanket, trapping heat and blocking drafts. Homes can lose up to 30% of energy this way, costing you ££. This simple evening habit can save around 10% on bills. For extra warmth and summer coolness, consider thermal linings – easy to add and can cut heat loss by up to 25%, saving you even more money.
UNPLUG THE HIDDEN ENERGY THIEVES
TVs, consoles, and chargers can secretly drain power when off – "energy vampires." Switch them off at the wall or use smart plugs to completely cut power. You'll be surprised how much you save by banishing these silent drains.
CONQUER THE 4 MINUTE SHOWER
Long showers use lots of energy to heat water. Challenge yourself to a four-minute shower! Even a small reduction saves noticeably on energy and water bills. Set a timer and see the impact on your wallet and the planet.
THE THERMOSTAT TWEAK
Try turning your thermostat down by one degree to potentially save on heating bills – you might not notice the comfort difference. Find your personal balance. Crucially, don't lower the thermostat if you live with young children, vulnerable adults, or anyone ill, as a colder house can be risky for them.
BIGGER CHANGES
WANT SOME EXPERT ADVICE?
Curious about the best ways to enhance your home's energy performance? Basingstoke and Deane's Green Team have expert energy advisors who are ready to visit your home, conduct a thorough energy survey, and provide you with a clear report outlining tailored recommendations and information on available grants. You can email them to set up a meeting HERE. If you want to know what a visit from the Green Team is like, read our chair, Laura's blog about her experience HERE.
INSULATE, INSULATE, INSULATE!
Let's talk about making your home work smarter, not harder. The most effective way to lower your energy bills long-term is by boosting your home's energy efficiency. Think of it as giving your house a thermal hug! This involves good insulation, tackling those sneaky drafts. Whether it's insulating your loft, upgrading windows with thermal blinds or curtains, sealing doors, or even looking at walls and floors, better insulation means less energy needed to stay cosy in winter and comfortably cool in summer. It's an investment that truly pays back in comfort and savings.
DO YOU KNOW THE EPC RATING OF YOUR HOUSE?
Tap into existing knowledge about your property's energy efficiency. If you've lived in your home for less than a decade, you should have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). This document contains valuable insights into potential improvements. You can easily access EPCs for properties in your street (including yours) by entering your postcode HERE. It shows both the current and potential EPC rating, along with specific steps to boost it. Remember, older homes, common in Overton with their solid walls, tend to be less energy efficient. A poor EPC rating (D, E, F, or G) could mean you're facing energy bills up to twice as high as someone in a more modern, efficient build.
UNDERSTANDING HEAT PUMPS
As gas boilers are phased out, understanding heat pumps and how they might suit your home is a smart move, especially if your current boiler is nearing the end of its life.
If you currently rely on an oil-fired boiler or LPG gas, it's worth noting that these fuels are not only expensive but also produce higher carbon emissions compared to mains gas. If you're curious about the cost of a heat pump installation for your home, you can connect with accredited local installers HERE. And if you're unsure about heat pump suitability for an older property, Martin's video of his installation in his Winchester Street cottage offers valuable insights. Watch it HERE.
INSTALLING SOLAR PANELS
Imagine generating your own clean electricity right from your roof! Solar panels capture sunlight and convert it into usable power for your home. They even work on cloudy days, though peak performance is, of course, on sunny ones. This means you'll rely less on grid electricity, especially during daylight hours. Consider adding a battery to store any excess energy generated during the day and use it in the evenings. To get a system tailored to your needs, dig out your annual electricity usage – installers can design the right size for your roof and consumption. They'll likely also ask about future plans for EV chargers or heat pumps, as these can influence the optimal system size. You can find local, certified installers HERE. You can also watch Overton resident, Caroline share her experience with her solar panels and battery on our You Tube channel.
EVERY DROP COUNTS!
Water is a precious resource, and in our water-stressed area, using it wisely makes both environmental and financial sense. Reducing unnecessary water consumption can lead to tangible savings on your bills. One simple step is to consider installing a water butt or two in your garden to collect rainwater from your gutters – perfect for keeping your plants watered sustainably. Southern Water, our local supplier in Overton, also offers free home visits and support to help you identify ways to reduce your water use and bills, even providing water-saving devices. You can learn more and book a visit HERE.
If you are struggling to pay your energy bills and need immediate help, please contact the Environment Centre or call them free on 0800 804 8601. They are based in Southampton, and look after the whole of Hampshire. They will help you navigate the myriad of different schemes to provide assistance and help you access the right ones.