Earlier this year we posted about the significant increase in energy costs due to impact the UK market. These increases are now being seen in real time and have become a regular theme within news headlines, and with the addition of inflation are presenting a major concern for many households across the country.
We have been busy working with our energy broker to secure the best rates across our portfolio which typically affects the communal areas of our developments. But we have also been receiving questions about what can be done to help make savings on usage, so we thought we’d collate some of those here as things to consider in your own home.
Peak Times
Actual peak times will depend on who your energy provider is, although typically off-peak periods are during quieter times when the demand for power is at its lowest. For many providers this is between the hours of 10pm and 8am. Demand tends to be highest between the hours of 7-10am and 6-8pm and so these are likely to be the peak times.
Don’t forget when using your washing machine or dishwasher try and do this during off-peak hours but ideally not when you’re sleeping as this can present a fire risk.
Some providers are offering off-peak tariffs, although it is worth noting the rate can be much higher if used during peak periods. If you’re not sure whether you have a peak / off peak tariff look at your energy bill or contact your provider to find out more information and see whether this is a viable option for you.
How to make savings in your home
There are some small changes we can all make to help save money on our energy bills:
- Only run a cycle of washing when full or wash clothes less often. If you can, try to save your laundry load for a few times a week instead of everyday.
- Wash clothes at a lower temperature when possible.
- Clean your washing machine and dishwasher regularly to prolong their lifespan.
- Don’t use your tumble dryer this is one of the most expensive appliances.
- Don’t charge mobile phones unnecessarily and when they’re at 100%, unplug them.
- Not using it, then switch it off. Don’t leave gadgets on standby; they are still using energy.
- Draught-proof your doors and fit curtains or blinds (noting specific lease & transfer guidelines).
- Like your washing machine, only run a cycle when your dishwasher is at full capacity.
- Set your dishwasher to run during off peak periods.
- Consider buying a more energy-efficient appliance (look out for the A+++ sticker when shopping around).
- Turn off lights when you leave a room.
- Reduce use of multiple electronic devices.
- Turn down your thermostat and if you can install a smart thermostat.
- Avoid overfilling your kettle.
- Be smarter with your water! When washing up, use a bowl rather than a running tap
- Swap baths for showers.
- If you have an old boiler it may be worth looking to upgrade to a newer and more energy efficient option.
- Batch cooking! Cook more at a time and cook less often saving you time and money.
- Take regular meter readings.
- Lastly, monitor your usage! This will help you to identify trends in your usage.
* Don’t forget when using your washing machine or dishwasher try and do this during off-peak hours but ideally not when you’re sleeping as this can present a fire risk.
How to make savings in your development
Many of our developments have a form of energy whether it is street lighting or mechanical and plant equipment such as lifts, pumps, gates, entry phones or communal heating systems. There are often more features within a development that use electricity than people realise and in some cases our residents can help to make some savings benefiting their development to.
- Swap the lift for the stairs – get your steps in for the day whilst making savings for your building.
- Turn off communal lighting when not need (where switches apply).
- Can you combine trips around your block in order to reduce the use of corridor lighting, gates, doors etc?
- If you see a fault to any electrical apparatus please report it to your Estate Manager as soon as possible.
What other things can you do to be prepared
- We know the winter can be unpredictable, so it doesn’t hurt to be prepared especially when energy rates are high.
- Make sure you have a couple of torches should you experience a power cut.
- Have a supply of batteries to hand ready for your torches and electric candles.
- Swap that electric blanket for a hot water bottle to keep toastie at night.
- Have some extra blankets ready to snuggle on the sofa or for bedtime.
- Layer up! It’s the best way to keep warm in the colder weather.
