Energy saving tips at home
Keeping your home cosy doesn’t have to cost the earth – or the planet. When we save energy, our bills can be lower, and we help look after the world around us. Energy prices in the UK have been rising, so every bit we can save really matters. We’ve pulled together some simple, everyday ideas to help you use less energy, stay warm, and keep more money in your pocket.
Heating and cooling
• Turn the heat down a little: Even lowering it by 1 degree can save money.
• Only heat the rooms you’re using: No point warming up empty spaces.
• Set a schedule for your heating: Have it switch on when you need warmth and off when you don’t, like at night or when you’re out.
• Let your radiators breathe: Release trapped air so they heat better.
• Block cold drafts: Seal up gaps around windows and doors to keep warm air in.
• Add insulation: Make sure your attic, walls, and hot water tank are well-covered so heat doesn’t escape.
• Use curtains smartly: Open them in the day for sunlight warmth, close them at night to keep heat in.
Appliances and electronics
• Turn off lights: Switch them off when you leave a room.
• Unplug things: Don’t leave chargers or devices plugged in if you’re not using them.
• Pick power-saving machines: Choose ones with good energy labels if you can.
• Fill them up: Only run the washing machine, dishwasher, or dryer when they’re full.
• Turn hot water down: Lower the heat on your water tank so it uses less energy.
• Clear the freezer: Get rid of ice build-up so it works better.
• Boil just enough water: Only boil what you need, like one cup’s worth for tea.
More energy saving tips
• Have quicker showers: A shorter shower uses less water and less energy to heat it.
• Wash clothes in cold water: Your washing powder or liquid will still work well.
• Dry clothes outside: Use a washing line instead of a tumble dryer when you can.
• Keep an eye on your energy: A smart meter can help you see how much you’re using.
• Look for cheaper energy deals: Changing your supplier could lower your bills.
• Fix drips and leaks: Don’t let water go to waste from taps or pipes.
We're in this together
As you make steps to cut down your energy use at home, we’re also working hard to become a greener company. We understand that going green won’t just happen overnight, and we all need to make little changes to make a big difference…
Here’s a little bit about what The Calico Group has been working on to smash our goal of becoming a net zero organisation by 2050.