Living in London comes with its unique charms and challenges, and one of the challenges many face is managing energy costs, especially when renting. Whether you’re in a flat, apartment, or house share, there are numerous ways to save energy and reduce your utility bills. Not only is this better for your wallet, but it’s also better for the environment. Here are ten practical tips to help you save energy while renting in London.
1. Use Energy-Efficient Appliances
When choosing appliances, opt for energy-efficient models with high Energy Star ratings. Look for this rating when renting, and if the appliances are not energy-efficient, you can suggest this to your landlord. Efficient appliances consume less energy and can significantly reduce your monthly bills.
2. Switch to LED Lighting
Replace traditional incandescent bulbs with energy-efficient LED lights. LED bulbs use significantly less energy and last much longer than traditional bulbs, saving you money on replacement costs as well as electricity bills.
3. Mindful Heating and Cooling
During colder months, keep your heating at a reasonable level, ideally around 18-21°C (64-70°F). Use draft excluders for doors and windows to keep the heat in. In summer, try to use fans instead of air conditioning whenever possible, as they consume much less energy.
4. Thermostat Programming
If your rental has a programmable thermostat, use it to set different temperatures for different times of the day. Lower the temperature when you’re away or asleep and raise it when you’re at home and active.
5. Seal Windows and Doors
Check for drafts around windows and doors. If you find any, use weatherstripping or draft excluders to seal them. This prevents warm air from escaping in winter and cool air from escaping in summer, making your home more energy-efficient.
6. Unplug Unused Electronics
Even when turned off, electronics and chargers can still consume energy if left plugged in. Get into the habit of unplugging devices when you’re not using them, or use power strips that can be easily switched off.
7. Limit Hot Water Usage
Heating water consumes a significant amount of energy. Take shorter showers, use cold water for washing clothes when possible, and consider installing a low-flow showerhead to reduce hot water usage.
8. Cook Smart
When using the oven, try to cook multiple dishes at once to make the most of the energy used. Use lids on pots and pans to retain heat and cook more efficiently. Microwave and toaster ovens are also more energy-efficient than conventional ovens for smaller tasks.
9. Be Conscious of Laundry
Wash your clothes in cold water whenever possible. Most of the energy used by washing machines goes into heating water. Also, wait until you have a full load before running the machine.
10. Community Efforts
Consider discussing energy-saving measures with your housemates or neighbors. Simple actions like turning off lights and appliances when not in use or sharing the cost of energy-efficient upgrades can make a significant difference.
By following these tips, you can reduce your energy consumption and save money on your utility bills while renting in London. Plus, by being mindful of your energy usage, you’re doing your part to conserve resources and reduce your environmental footprint. Making these small changes can have a big impact both on your finances and the planet.
