Broad Street Wrington Businesses

3 Tincknells Row, Station Road, Wrington

Getting the bills down - "Gas is going up HOW much?" !

Gas prices have risen yet again and as last month's article stated all fossil fuels are likely to become more expensive. This article looks at some of the ways we can reduce the impact of climbing bills. There are many ways in which we can all waste less, use less and pay less.

Waste less
You can't hold water in a colander, and you can't keep heat in a leaky house, so when heating your house remember: Insulation, insulation, insulation.

   
Lofts. Insulation should be 250mm (10") thick. If it is 50mm (2") or less there are
   several energy company schemes that supply subsidised insulation .

   Cavity walls. These should be filled with insulation, also available with energy
   company subsidies.

   Hot water cylinders. Lag it, then lag it again!

   Doors and windows. Fit draft proofing to reduce heat loss.

   Boilers. Just like your car, an annual service keeps them working efficiently.

   Heating Thermostat. Turning it down 1 degree can save you 10% on your bill

   Patio heaters. Portable global warming machines! Don't buy one!

   TVs on standby. Every video or stereo on standby costs about £10 a year to run.

Use less

   Measure use. An energy monitor (£12.00 from Maplins) can show you how much
   each appliance uses.

   Replacing domestic machines. Always buy an A, A* or A** rated product

   Lights. Only buy and fit low energy bulbs.

   Timers. Switch on devices only when needed.

   Kettles. Clear ones are easy to fill with only the water you need.

   Showers. Use about a quarter of the water and energy that baths do.

   Old fridges and freezers. Do you really need them? they probably cost over £100
   per year to run.

   Washing machines. Run them only on full load and at low temperature. Modern
   detergents work just as well at 40º C.

Pay less

   Switch suppliers. Using websites such as "Uswitch" is very easy and can save you a
   lot of money. You are only contracted to stay with any supplier for a maximum of
   28 days.

   Fit a condensing boiler. They are much more efficient than older types.

   Fit solar water heating. Once fitted it will provide 50% or more of your hot water
   for nothing for the next 20-30 years.

If you need any more help or ideas log on to any of the energy supplier websites
where you will find masses of help and advice.

Phil Neve
Brilliant Energy


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3 Tincknells Row, Station Road, Wrington, North Somerset, BS40 5LL
t 01934 862810
m 07967 387628
e philneve@supanet.com
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