Big Energy Saving Week: Tips to Keep Warm Without Breaking the Bank

Big Energy Saving Week runs from 19th to 25th January, and with the energy price cap rising this month, and the cost-of-living crisis still biting, there’s never been a better time to find ways to cut our energy use and save money.

This blog from our Marketing Manager, Lizzy, shares tips she’s collated from the Sero team and some of the things she’s trying to keep her bills lower.

As a single mum living in a home that never seems to get warm, and with energy bills taking a big chunk of my monthly outgoings, I’ve been on a mission to make simple changes that help reduce my bills whilst making my home feel warmer. Luckily, working at Sero means I’m surrounded by brilliant energy experts who are full of clever ideas. So, I asked them for simple, practical tips that actually work.

The suggestions have been flying in, and the debates on what works and what doesn’t have been brilliant! From adding radiator reflector panels to heated vests and pads for working from home without cranking up the heating, we’ve explored it all! We’ve even debated the best way to dry clothes in winter.

During the Big Energy Saving Week, more of the team will join me and put some of our suggestions to the test, turning it into a family challenge, and sharing the learnings and impact (keep an eye out on LinkedIn).

So, what are our top tips for simple actions that we think can help and will be putting to the test? Here you go…

  • Seal the draughts: Block gaps around doors, windows, and loft hatches to keep the cold out
  • Retain heat: Wrap your hot water tank, lag pipes, and add radiator reflector panels if you’ve got cold/uninsulated walls
  • Rearrange for warmth: Move furniture away from radiators, use thick curtains to reduce heat loss (but don’t cover the radiator!)
  • Check your radiators: Turn down settings in unused rooms, dust them with a radiator brush, and bleed regularly
  • Install a smart thermostat and meter: Control heating remotely, set schedules, and track usage to discover your best routine
  • Maximise time of use tariffs: Unlock cheaper rates by using your washing machine, dishwasher or charging your EV during off-peak times
  • Turn down your boiler: Lowering the flow temperature saves gas and money. Check out the Boiler Challenge to find out how
  • Choose energy-saving appliances: Pick efficient models for your next washing machine, fridge, or tumble dryer, including ones with a delay timer function to maximise off-peak usage
  • Fridge-freezer care: Don’t overstuff, and defrost regularly for efficiency
  • Switch to LED bulbs: They use up to 90% less energy and last longer
  • Unplug devices: Chargers, laptops, and appliances off at the plug makes a difference over time
  • Think wash, not spa: Shorter showers (4 minutes is ideal) and swap baths for showers
  • Smart cooking: Use microwaves or air fryers for small dishes, or consider slow cooking, and when the oven’s off, let the heat warm the kitchen
  • Ditch the tumble dryer: Try hanging clothes outside on mild days or use a heated airer or dehumidifier (look out for our LinkedIn post for more tips on drying).

From the above list, I’ve recently added radiator reflectors, turned down my boiler and swapped to an air fryer when my son just wants Chicken Nuggets for tea. My next steps include sealing my draughty windows, rearranging my living room and bleeding my radiators.

When I’ve shared my experience with the team so far, there’s one thing we all agree on during our chats: finding the right solution depends on your home, lifestyle, and budget. That’s why testing and learning is so important. So why not join us this week and put some of our suggestions to the test! We’d love to know what worked for you and any other great tips we might have missed.

If you’re not following us already, but would love to join in the discussion on LinkedIn, make sure you give the Sero account a follow.

 

Author: Lizzy, Marketing Manager