Technology That Can Help You Save Money
Everyone is concerned with the rising cost of personal energy use and on a global level, everyone should be helping to reduce the national carbon footprint. We have gathered some tips about the technology that is available to help you save money on your utility bills in the UK, or almost anywhere.
Smart Meters
The UK government plans to have gas and electricity smart meters installed in every home and work place at the end of 2020. The smart meter and the accompanying in-home display devices allow you to keep track of how and when you are consuming energy. The in-home display gives you real time and up-to-date information on when you consumed electricity and gas, how many units you consumed, and what is the specific cost in pounds and pence. You can also compare your current consumption with your past consumption. How can this technology save you money? If you have information on how and when you are using energy, you can isolate the specific appliances that are drawing the most energy and start to think about the ways you can reduce that amount.
Change Your Shower Head
If your shower draws hot water directly from the boiler or tank, consider installing a water efficient shower head. You get the same shower strength, but reduce the amount of water you use and the cost of heating the water. A water efficient shower head can save a family of four £80 annually on gas to heat the water and an additional annual £120 on the water bill, providing a water meter is in place.
Dim It Or Switch It Off
Tablets and computers have a bright-lit screen. Adjust the brightness down during the day time and save energy. Another plus is that your battery will last longer. Although standby modes on computers and TVs are convenient, you can save more money by turning the device off. A timer plug can turn the power off to a device for a specific period of time ranging from 15 minutes to 8 hours. Some standby savers are designed to be used with computers and will switch off up to 6 devices at the same time the computer is turned off. Here’s another hint — laptops use 85% less energy than desktop computers.
Check Your Energy Use On the Go
The new smart thermostats can connect to your smart phone. You can remotely adjust the temperature of your home. The smart thermostat also learns your habits and will make its own adjustments. If your gas and electricity is supplied by First Utility, get a First Utility App. The app allows you to check your energy usage whilst on the go and make comparisons with your history of energy use. Other advantages of the app are a virtual assistant to check your account and provide advice.
Replace Your Light Bulbs
Exchange your traditional light bulbs with the new energy-saving bulbs. By replacing only 10 light bulbs with energy efficient one, you can save an estimated £70 a year. LEDs and CFLs may cost a little more up front, but they have much longer lifetimes. You can also realize savings by simply turning the light out when you leave the room.
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