We can help:
Our cold and wet climate can cause problems of dampness inside the home. Read more
How much energy do your most common household appliances consume? Learn more
Your cooker, which uses electricity or gas to produce high temperature heat, is likely to be one of the most energy hungry items in your home.
A smart meter can help you take control of your energy bills. See what you’re spending at a glance – and work out where you could reduce your energy use.
It's a good idea to know your gas and electricity meter readings. You can keep an eye on the energy you're using and make sure your bills are accurate, avoiding unexpected energy costs.
The Priority Services Register is a free support service offered by energy suppliers and network providers. Registering gives you access to additional services and help. Check out if you’re eligible to sign up by contacting your current energy supplier or network provider and ensure you get the correct support when you need it.
What you need to know if you are on the following tariffs: Economy 7, Economy 10 or Total Heat Total Control.
Lots of useful information for people living in Scotland about your rights as an energy consumer.
Energy Action Scotland is Scotland’s national fuel poverty charity. Read the latest from Energy Action Scotland members.
Draught-proofing is one of the cheapest and most effective ways to save energy – and money – in any type of building. Keeping cold air out and saving warm air means you’ll use less energy to heat your home, so you’ll save money as well as making your home snug and warm.
Having good insulation in your home, whether it’s in the loft space, under the floors, as cavity wall or solid wall insulation, will reduce heat loss making your home warmer and cheaper to heat. For example, fitting your hot water cylinder with an insulating jacket (at least 8cm) will save you money in heating costs and reduce CO2 emissions.
Being wise about washing could save you money and energy. Washing clothes at 30°C and selecting the shortest cycle that’s practical for your wash will make using the washing machine more economical. Drying outside will help to prevent build-up of moisture and condensation in the house, reducing the risk of potential mildew and mould issues. You can also save water, energy and money by choosing an economy setting or if your wash load is small checking if you have a half load option.
Energy efficient bulbs use between 80-90% less energy than traditional bulbs and can last up to 50,000 hours making them a very cost-effective option over their lifetime. Lighting accounts for about 15% of your household energy use, so by replacing the traditional and halogen light bulbs in your house with low energy alternatives you will decrease your energy use, save money and reduce the household carbon dioxide emissions.
The windows in your house can be a significant area for heat loss. If it’s possible, installing double or triple glazed windows and doors will help reduce this heat loss. Less expensive secondary glazing systems varying from temporary film on windows to more substantial DIY kits will also make a difference. Hanging heavy material curtains at the windows will prevent draughts and reduce heat loss. Warmth from solar gain in the daytime can make a big difference to the overall temperature of a room too.
Using a household budget can be a very effective way to understand how much money you’ve got coming in, and what you need to spend it on. It can be especially helpful if you’re working towards financial goals – such as getting out of debt, saving for a mortgage or putting money away for retirement.
The quickest way to start saving money on energy use is by switching off lights and electrical appliances when they’re not being used. Turn energy saving into a game for the kids to help them remember to switch things off and get everyone in your household involved. Recognising the importance of not wasting energy is good for your pocket and the planet.
An inefficient boiler could cost you more to run than it should. Having your boiler or heating system serviced regularly (annually, if possible) helps maintain the efficiency - saving you money in the long term, as well as ensuring the appliance is in safe working order with no hazardous leaks. Chimneys and flues should also be checked and swept regularly.
