Energy supplier EDF is urging households across the United Kingdom to take immediate action to reduce their energy costs, with potential savings of at least £145 up for grabs.
The company has published a series of practical tricks and tips on its website, which it says could help customers save hundreds of pounds annually by making minor adjustments to daily habits.
Heating Hacks for Major Savings
EDF highlights that home heating is a primary area where savings can be made. Turning your room thermostat down by just one degree could save you up to £145 a year, a significant sum for many families.
Another key recommendation is to adjust your combi boiler's flow temperature. Reducing it from 80°C to 60°C can save around 12% of the gas used for heating, without making your home feel colder. However, EDF notes this isn't suitable for all systems and advises checking their online guide.
Further heating advice includes setting timers so heating is only on when needed, turning off radiators in empty rooms using thermostatic valves, and keeping doors shut to contain heat. The supplier states that heating your home for one hour less each day can lead to substantial savings over time.
Efficiency Boosts Beyond the Boiler
EDF's guidance extends to other areas of the home. Ensuring radiators are bled of trapped air improves their efficiency, meaning they heat up faster and use less energy.
Lighting is another simple fix. The energy firm suggests switching lights off when leaving a room, which could save about £8 annually. More impactful is replacing old halogen bulbs with modern LEDs; the Energy Saving Trust estimates this switch can save an average home £45 a year.
Smart Washing for Lower Costs
Laundry habits also offer a clear saving opportunity. Washing clothes at 30 degrees instead of higher temperatures can reduce the machine's energy use by approximately 40% each year.
By combining these strategies—from tweaking the thermostat to changing light bulbs and washing habits—EDF asserts that UK households can make a meaningful dent in their energy expenditure, providing welcome financial relief amid ongoing cost-of-living pressures.
