Big Energy Saving Week: Energy Saving Tips

This week is Big Energy Saving Week, so what better time is there to take action and save energy in your home? The rising cost of energy bills is an ongoing concern for many of us, but by taking some positive, practical steps you can save energy – and money, too.

It might be one of the smaller rooms in your house, but your bathroom is responsible for a large amount of wasted energy. Here's how to take control and save rather than waste:

Use less water: There are a few simple checks you can make in your bathroom to stop excess water and money going straight down the drain. Fixing dripping taps, using water-efficient showerheads and not leaving taps running while you brush your teeth or wash your face are good starting points. Also, a long, hot soak in the bath may be relaxing, but if you swap that for a five-minute shower you will see your energy bills drop.

Opt for energy-efficient lighting: Another simple eco-fix in the bathroom is changing existing light fittings to energy-efficient LED or Compact Fluorescent Lighting (CFL). A CFL will last for an average of 8,000 hours and save you more than £35 over that period of time.

Insulate walls: If you are updating or refreshing your bathroom it is worth insulating walls as part of the project. This is especially effective if your bathroom is on the ground floor.

Replace your extractor fan: Condensation can be a big problem in bathrooms so extractor fans are a must. However, if you upgrade to a heat recovery fan it will save the heat from the humidity it extracts and use this to warm the incoming colder air. Clever stuff!

Choose energy-efficient fixtures: You might want to think about replacing some – or all – of your bathroom fixtures. These are bigger changes, but worth it over time. Go for a dual-flush or low-flush toilet, reduced capacity bath and low-flow taps – they are well worth the investment.