While the cost of living continues to challenge many, it’s more important than ever to keep an eye on household expenses. Among these expenses, energy bills are significant.
Energy use doesn’t just affect our bank accounts, either. Our carbon footprint is largely driven by the activity we participate in at home.
The use of energy efficient appliances and tech is a practical step towards managing this. Not only does this help in cutting down costs, but it also plays a crucial role in reducing our carbon footprint, making our homes more environmentally friendly!
Residential Energy Services deliver free, impartial advice to homes and communities every day, just like the advice in this blog. Feel free to reach out to us if you have any questions or concerns about managing the cost of living with new appliances and technology in the home.
Here are five recommended appliances and technologies that will help you save energy and money, making your home more efficient, comfortable and affordable.
Energy Efficient Boilers
What does it do? Energy-efficient boilers are designed to use less fuel, producing the same amount of heat as traditional boilers, but inflicting less long term impact on the environment. Modern boilers also benefit from smarter and more flexible controls.
How much does it cost? The cost can vary greatly depending on the type and size of the boiler, from £500 to as much as £2,500, but it’s essential to evaluate your boiler needs based on the size of your home and your typical energy usage.
How does it save money? By using less fuel to heat your home, energy-efficient boilers can save you up to £340 a year on your heating bills!
Thermostatic Radiator Valves (TRVs)
What does it do? TRVs regulate the temperature of each room individually, by controlling the flow of hot water to the radiators, providing heat where and when it’s needed.
How much does it cost? A TRV can cost between £10 and £30 per valve, so it’s a measure you can try out in your home today!
How does it save money? By enabling you to control the temperature in individual rooms, TRVs can save you up to 40% annually on your energy bills.
LED Bulbs
What does it do? LED bulbs use a small fraction of the electricity that traditional bulbs use, to produce the same amount of light. They are available in a wide variety of colours and fittings. Dimmable LEDs are also widely available.
How much does it cost? They typically cost between £1 and £10 per bulb, so it’s a measure you can try for yourself today!
How does it save money? LED bulbs consume up to 90% less energy than halogen bulbs. According to the Energy Saving Trust, you can expect to save £2-3 per year for every traditional halogen bulb you replace, which adds up!
Dehumidifiers
What does it do? Dehumidifiers remove excess moisture from the air, which can help heat your home more efficiently.
How much does it cost? Prices range from £100 to £250, depending on its capacity and control features.
How does it save money? With less humidity, your heating system works more efficiently, potentially saving you around £50 a year on your energy bills. As an added bonus, dehumidifiers make rooms more suitable for drying clothes, reducing drying time and reducing reliance on tumble dryers, which are very energy-hungry!
Smart Meters
What does it do? Smart meters provide real-time information on energy consumption, encouraging efficient energy use and eliminating the need for estimates, or providing readings to your energy supplier.
How much does it cost? They are usually installed for free by your energy supplier, so no upfront cost to you!
How does it save money? By monitoring your energy usage closely, you can save an estimated £20 to £35 annually. You also save a great deal of time, as you’ll no longer have to note down readings!
ECO4 – Cutting the Cost Even Further
To make the transition to more energy-efficient living even easier and more affordable, government schemes like the ECO4 grant scheme offer assistance with replacing old, inefficient boilers. This scheme not only supports households financially but also contributes to the environment by reducing the carbon output of many UK homes.
If you’re interested in reducing your energy bills and your carbon footprint, complete our eligibility form today to see if you’re eligible for financial support, through ECO4, the ECO Flex Scheme or a number of other initiatives.
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