Ten money-saving tips

Financially times are hard for everyone, so here are some ways to help make your bills lower!

1. In the kitchen only boil as much water in the kettle as you need, and use pan lids when you cook to keep the heat in.
2. If you have an electric hob and need to boil a panful of water, it’s cheaper to do it in the kettle (but about the same if you use a covered pan on a gas hob).
3. Use low-energy light bulbs, if you treat them gently when you fit them they could last for years and save you £7 a year per bulb.
4. Don’t leave electrical goods like TVs on standby; the average household wastes £37 per year through this.
5. Try to dry your clothes outside – weather permitting!
6. Turn out lights when you leave the room.
7. Only use the washing machine and dishwasher when there’s a full load to go.
8. Take showers instead of baths, this saves water and water heating costs.
9. Try not to keep the hot tap running; use a plug instead.
10. When you need to buy appliances, make sure they are rated A or A+ for energy.

For more energy saving ideas, please visit: www.energysavingtrust.org