Environment & Money Saving Tips - Part 2
By Christopher Tait

Here are a few more money, energy and environment saving tips for you to implement. Some require an initial outlay of money but all will help make a difference.

Reduce your washing temperature
Most clothes state that they need washing at 40°C but you will find that with modern day washing machines, fabrics and also the washing powder / liquid that you can safely wash at 30°C. This will provide the same wash but as it is at a lower temperature it requires less energy. The fact that it uses less energy is passed straight onto you via the reduction of the electricity bill. You can also make sure that you are doing a full load each time you do you washing. This stops unnecessary washes and again reduces the energy required over time.

Stop using the tumble dryer
The tumble dryer and radiators being on al day to get clothes dry isn't the best option. If it is dry outside get your clothes on the line. We know this is not practical for all families especially those with young children but where possible use natural means of drying.

Swap your light bulbs
Energy efficient light bulbs can last up to 10 times longer than their standard counterparts. The energy efficient bulbs also require less energy than the standard light bulbs thus saving you money. It has been worked out that this can save around £7 per light bulb so over the course of its life span this is around a £70 saving PER BULB! This is not to mention the amount of CO2 that is not being pumped into our atmosphere around 26 kilograms of CO2 can be saved each year per bulb being replaced.

Collect rain water
Water butts are available in all major garden centres now and even some larger supermarkets! Get one of these and attach to a drain pipe on your house, shed or garage. It'll collect water when it rains. Simple as that. Use this to water your garden and plants when needed. You'll see a saving in your water bill. Those that invest in water butts may want to talk to their water board and see about being moved onto a water meter to experience more benefits.

Take a shower
Stop using the bath and jump into the shower instead. Having a shower saves a lot more water than having a bath and is more cost efficient to have too. If you already shower then reduce the time that you are in the shower. Each 5 minutes in a modern shower uses about 40 litres of water so reducing your shower time for a few minutes will help your bills. Again those swapping over may want to talk to their water board about having a water meter installed.