5 simple ways to save energy, money, and the planet

0
11593

With the world population facing the challenges of global warming, we often hear about the need to reduce emissions. Becoming more energy efficient is one way to reduce your carbon footprint. Here are some actionable things you can do to save the planet and save money!

1. Energy-efficient lighting

This first point is well known by now, but if you haven’t already made the switch, here are some reasons to do it. Though they can cost a little more than non-energy efficient lighting, LED lighting lasts longer and uses less electricity, giving you savings far greater than the price difference. Find out more about how to choose an efficient light.

Lightbulb energy efficiency chart
Comparison of energy saving and non-energy saving light bulbs all with the same brightness output.

Smart lighting

yeelight bulbs

Modern LED bulbs also have smart function settings so you can save even more power by using timers or diming in the evenings. Many also have full spectrum colors and can be used to alter the mood and feel of a room.

SMART LIGHTING

For outdoor areas

arilux SL range of solar lights

Energy efficient motion sensor lighting which offers a simple and convenient way to light outside areas while reducing your electricity bill. This can be as easy as swapping out the bulb with an led. Another option is solar. Earlier generations of solar lights were not very bright, modern solar lights have motion detection and brighter output.

SOLAR LIGHTS

2. Reduce water use

tap aerator
Aerators reduce water consumption while maintaining the feeling of a fast flowing tap .

Conserve water through quick showers instead of baths; turn off taps and showerheads when not needed. For example, while brushing teeth. Energy-efficient shower heads and taps use aerators to reduce water waste and can be easily installed. They are designed to reduce the amount of water delivered, while still providing you with an invigorating shower.

AERATORS  SHOWER HEADS

3. Turn off electronics when not in use

wall sockets

Turn off wall switches if you have them; otherwise, unplug electrical products when not in use as leaving things on standby mode wastes electricity and therefore money. If you have a lot of electrical equipment that is often not in use at the same time, a good trick can be to plug them into a power strip. That way you just have to turn the power strip off or unplug it.

Smart sockets control

sonoff smart sockets

If you want an automatic system, smart sockets are simple to set up. Like smart bulbs, you can make timers and control them from your phone. If combined with lighting you can set up an energy saving house, so when you leave, lights and sockets turn off.

SMART SOCKETS

4. Air dry clothes.

drying clothes

Many people do this already, but if you don’t, hanging clothes out to dry is cheaper and uses no electricity; just plan ahead by a day or two!

5. Reducing Air Conditioning and heating

Air conditioning control display

Even small actions like turning down your heating and air conditioning a little can have a considerable impact on energy saving and bills.

How much will I save?

While these changes might seem small, they are also cheap to make. By following these tips you will see some great savings over the long term, and help reduce energy consumption!

Want to do more?

For those of you willing to go even further, you might want to think about installing wind or solar panels on your roof. Whilst this is a bigger project than the others, it could save you a great deal of money in the long-run.

Solar panels

WIND & SOLAR GENERATION

Need some energy saving gear?

It’s easy for you to do most of these, and we’ve got a great range of lighting and other useful products to help you cut down your energy bills. Save money and the planet!