Energy Saving Tips

Dimplex is one of Trading Depot's key suppliers of heating solutions. They have produced these handy tips for energy saving:

The energy we use to heat, light and power our homes contributes over a quarter of the UK’s carbon emissions, the principal contributor to climate change. Around half the energy used in the home is for heating and hot water.

Whilst most Dimplex heating appliances come complete with built-in thermostats for energy saving, using your heating system efficiently will not only help the environment, but also save you money!

Energy Efficiency Tip for Heating and Hot Water

1. Don't set the temperature too high...

For every 1°C your thermostat is turned down, you could save as much as 10% on your energy usage. And if you’re away during the winter, leave the thermostat on the frost protection setting to provide protection from freezing at a minimum cost.

2. Use it when you need it..

Set the appropriate temperature on your heaters for the room they are in, for example, in the spare bedroom leave the thermostat on a lower setting.

3. The time is right...

Use heaters fitted with timers or linked to central controllers to turn the heating on only when you need it and automatically switch to off when you don’t.

4. Curtains...

Close your curtains at dusk to stop heat escaping through the windows.

5. Windows...

Nearly 25% of heat loss can occur through poorly insulated frames and single glazing. If you can’t afford to double glaze all your windows, go for the room you heat the most.

6. Treat your hot water tank...

Give it a jacket. An insulating jacket for hot water tanks only costs a few pounds and pays for itself within months. Fit one that’s at least 75mm (3”) thick and you could save £10-15 a year.

7. Water...

Use a shower if you have one to save time, money and water. Don’t set the thermostat too high on you water cylinder – 60°C / 140°F is usually adequate for bathing and washing. Put the plug in when running hot water in your sink – leaving taps running is both wasteful and expensive. Ensure dripping taps are repaired quickly. In just one day, you could waste a bathful of water.

Other Energy Saving Tips for around the Home

1. Lights...

Turn off lights whenever you leave a room for more than 10 minutes. Use low energy bulbs wherever you can as they use less than a quarter of the electricity used by ordinary bulbs and last 10 times longer!

2. Cooking...

Use the right size pan for the food and cooker hob. Keep saucepan lids on – this enable you to turn down the heat. Boil water for cooking in a kettle. Use a toaster rather than a grille to make toast. Avoid over filling the kettle for one drink, but be sure to cover the element.

3. Washing Machines...

Wait until you have a full load, or use the half load or economy programme if your machine has one. Use your machine at the lowest temperature you can.

4. Televisions and HI-FI...

Switch off your TV, DVD and Hi-Fi at the mains. Stand-by can use as much as 10%-60% of the electricity used when it is fully switched on.

5. Fridges and Freezers

Defrost fridges and freezers regularly to keep them running efficiently. Don’t leave the door open longer than necessary. Don't put hot or warm food straight into the fridge – let it cool down first.