Saving energy and keeping warm

Top 10 energy saving tips

Switch off lights in empty rooms

Close curtains at dusk

Set thermostats correctly
– hot water thermostats at around 60-65°C
– room thermostats between 18-21°C (or 23 °C if there are elderly or very young people in the home)

Turn electrical appliances off rather than leaving them on standby

Only fill the kettle with as much water as you need each time you boil it

Cook with lids on pans and match ring size to saucepan size

Avoid placing furniture in front of radiators

Wait until you have a full load before using your washing machine and use a lower washing temperature (between 30-40°C)

Use a shower instead of a bath when possible

Tumble-dryers cost a lot to run – dry clothes outside or on a clothes rail for free when possible

Further information

• For help with fuel debt, fuel payments and advice on energy efficiency, contact your local Energy Efficiency Advice Centre on their freephone number 0800 512 012.

• The Warmburgh Advice Team offers detailed advice to help Edinburgh residents use less gas and electricity

• Advice from the Scottish Executive on energy efficiency

• The Scottish Executive’s Central Heating and Warm Deal Programmes

• Information on other energy saving grants and offers that might be available, energy efficient products, and advice on energy saving in the home can be found on the Energy Saving Trust website.