Simple energy-saving changes you can start today

You don’t need major home upgrades to cut energy use and lower bills. Small, everyday changes can make a real difference — especially when lots of them add up. Here are some straightforward, practical energy-saving actions you can try at home.

Keep the heat where it belongs

• Draught-proof windows and doors to stop warm air escaping

• Block unused chimneys with a chimney balloon or draught excluder

• Seal gaps around floors, loft hatches, pipework and cracks in walls

• Move furniture away from radiators so heat can circulate properly

• Close curtains at night to reduce heat loss through windows

  
  

Use your heating and hot water more efficiently

• Fit a hot water cylinder jacket if you have a tank

• Turn down your boiler flow temperature (this can cut gas use without affecting comfort)

• Lower your room thermostat by just 1°C — it can reduce heating costs significantly

• Use timer settings so your heating only runs when you need it

  
  

Cut electricity waste

• Switch to energy-saving light bulbs

• Turn off lights when rooms are empty

• Turn appliances fully off instead of leaving them on standby

• Clean fridge and freezer grills so they run more efficiently

  
  

Make small changes in daily habits

• Wash clothes at 30°C instead of 40°C

• Hang washing outside to dry when you can

• Use slow cookers, which use much less energy than ovens

• Only boil the water you need — don’t overfill the kettle

  
  

Get smarter with energy

• Ask your energy supplier for a smart meter to better understand how and when you use energy

  
  

None of these changes need to happen all at once. Even trying a few can help cut energy bills, reduce carbon emissions and make your home more comfortable. Small steps, taken together, really do matter.