Energy Saving Fact vs Fiction

Tricks to save money on energy usage range from painting radiators black to putting clingfilm on windows. Do these methods work in practice, or are they just hot air?

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Turning off Standby

Does switching your television or PC off of standby mode really save on power? According to the Energy Saving Trust, it certainly does. Switching appliances off at the socket can save a household up to £30 a year.

Leaving the Heating on Low All Day

The energy experts at British Gas and the Energy Saving Trust agree that the idea of saving energy by leaving the heating on but with the thermostat set on low all day is a myth. The experts say that it is better to use a timer and only have the heating on when you need it.

Clingfilm on the Windows

As strange as it may sound, putting clingfilm on windows does help keep heat from escaping. The Energy Saving Trust says that any kind of material can be used as an additional layer of glazing, as long as it is airtight and transparent. Clingfilm will really only serve as a temporary measure, so it is recommended that double glazing is professionally installed to provide long-lasting benefits.

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Painting Radiators Black and Installing Reflective Wall Panels

The experts believe that black radiators are no more efficient than white ones. On the other hand, placing mirrored panels behind a radiator can reduce heat loss by reflecting heat back into the room rather than allowing it to leak through the external walls. Panels are shown to give the greatest benefit to homes with uninsulated walls.

Switch to a Combi Boiler?

When choosing a new boiler, you really need to consider the specific needs of your household before deciding between a standard or combi boiler. If you tend to use a lot of water, a standard boiler is more likely to be cheaper to run. Regular boiler servicing will also ensure energy efficiency. In the local area, there are several firms that can provide a boiler service Gloucester has oil, gas and LPG specialists such as http://www.hprservicesltd.com/gloucester-boilers/boiler-service-gloucester/ .

Energy-saving measures in the home are wide-ranging and can often be quite simple to implement. Small changes can add up to great savings. Whenever energy efficiency can be improved, money can be saved.