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7 Ways To Save Money By Becoming Energy Efficient

Mon 21 May 2007 - 13:32

7 Ways To Save Money By Becoming Energy Efficient
By Gary Parsons

It's not just the introduction of home information packs which you should be looking at when judging how energy efficient your home is. By making many much needed adjustments, you should be able to take full advantage of those falling gas and electricity prices.

1. Double Glazing; is one of the first things people think of when they look at making their home not only more saleable but warmer in the winter. By trapping a gas in between the panes of the glass, a more energy efficient seal is created that many believe can help reduce your heating bills by half, thus reducing the cost of your gas bills.

2. Cavity Wall Insulation; involves filling a brick cavity with insulation in the form of wool, foam or often polystyrene. This is done by drilling small holes into your outside wall and injecting the materials into the cavity of the brick. Whilst your home is warmer in the winter, it will remain cool in the summer.

3. Lighting; is a way in which you can make small, less expensive changes to your home by installing energy light bulbs. These bulbs are believed to last up to 12 times longer than the average bulb, as well as using less electricity.

4. Appliances; are one of the items we are most 'energy' aware of at the time of purchase. All fridges, freezers and washing machines carry a rating which shows how energy efficient they are.

5. Loft Insulation; helps us stop the large amount of heat that we lose through our roofs as heat rises. By installing the recommended 6 inches of insulation, you are expected to save up to 20% on your bill.

6. Central Heating; is something we have in most our homes. Like appliances, each is given an energy rating and is made more efficient by installing thermostats on each radiator which can be easily adjusted.

7. Alternative Energies; is an area where you can also become more environmentally friendly. By subscribing to green energy tariffs, you are able to guarantee either all or a percentage of renewable energy from the likes of wind farms and hydro-electricity. Many gas suppliers also choose to donate money to the Carbon Storage Trust as an alternative way to meet this demand.

As you can see there are many options available, some quite easily implemented and others involving large amounts of money. If you still want to go ahead then you may be able to obtain a grant from your local authority or take out a new type of green loan from your bank.

Always ensure you compare gas and electricity prices before you commit to electricity or gas suppliers.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Gary_Parsons
http://EzineArticles.com/?7-Ways-To-Save-Money-By-Becoming-Energy-Efficient&id=566846


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