Climate action at home

1. Be smart with major appliances

• Shower: Limit your shower time and consider installing a water-saving showerhead.
• Cooker: Use the microwave or toaster oven for small meals instead of the full oven.
• Tumble Dryer: Use a clothesline or drying rack whenever possible.
• Washing Machine: Wash full loads and use the eco-setting. Opt for cold or 30-degree washes.
• Kettle: Only boil the amount of water you need and descale regularly to keep it efficient.

2. Unplug and switch off

• Standby Mode: Many devices consume energy even when turned off. Use a power strip to easily switch off multiple devices.
• Lighting: Switch to LED bulbs which use less energy and last longer than incandescent bulbs.

3. Efficient heating and cooling

• Thermostat: Lower your thermostat by 1 degree; it can reduce heating bills by up to 10%.
• Insulation: Use draught excluders on doors and windows to prevent heat loss. Seal gaps around windows and doors with weather-stripping or caulk.
• Curtains: Open curtains during the day to let in natural heat from the sun and close them at night to retain heat.

4. Water heating

• Immersion Heater: Only turn on the immersion heater when necessary and invest in a timer to avoid leaving it on longer than needed.
• Hot Water Cylinder: Insulate your hot water cylinder to keep water hotter for longer. 

5. General energy saving habits

• Fridge and Freezer: Keep your fridge and freezer well-stocked but not overcrowded. Ensure door seals are tight and defrost regularly.
• Cooking: Use lids on pots to retain heat, and match pot size to burner size to use energy more efficiently.
• Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation in attics and crawl spaces to prevent moisture build-up and help with insulation.