As the festive season quickly approaches, many of us are planning trips to visit family or take a winter sun getaway. While you’re off enjoying mince pies, mulled wine and festive activities, your home could be quietly racking up unnecessary energy costs.
At SolarTherm UK we often advise homeowners how to take simple steps to reduce electricity usage while away, helping you to save money and energy over the holidays.
Turn Your Water Heater Off
One of the biggest drains on your energy bills is leaving your water heater running while you’re away. If nobody is going to be using hot water for a few days, consider switching it off completely. Modern water heaters can reheat quickly on your return, making it unnecessary to waste energy heating water while you’re not there to use it.
Manage Your Heating Wisely
Many families keep their heating on a low setting to maintain warmth throughout winter, but small adjustments can make a big difference. Lowering your thermostat by just a few degrees for the for the duration of your trip can save up to 30% on heating costs. You could switch the system off entirely or use a timer or smart thermostat to keep your heating costs low throughout your holiday.
Fridges and Freezers
Fridges and freezers can quietly use a lot of electricity. For extended trips, empty and switch them off completely, for shorter breaks raise the temperature slightly while keeping food safe. If turning off isn’t an option, keep them full, a packed fridge and freezer stays cold more efficiently than an empty one.
Cut Phantom Power
Many devices continue to draw power even when switched off. TVs, computers, game consoles, coffee machines and chargers are all guilty of drawing power even when not in use. Unplug these before leaving or use smart plugs to control them remotely.
Lights for Security
It’s common practice to leave a light on for security over the Christmas period or when taking a holiday. Installing smart lighting or timers can give the impression that someone is home without wasting electricity throughout the day.
When in Doubt, Switch off at the Fuse Box
For maximum savings, consider turning off non-essential circuits at the fuse box or consumer unit.
Make Your Savings Permanent With Solar Panels
While these festive tips can help reduce your bills while you’re away, the biggest way to cut your energy costs year round is by generating your own free electricity with solar panels.
At SolarTherm UK we specialise in installing high efficiency solar panels that allow you to:
- Slash your energy bills permanently by up to 70%, not just for the holidays
- Generate clean, renewable energy for your home
- Increase your property’s value by up to 14%
- Protect yourself against volatile electricity prices
With the winter sun still providing power and solar installation costs falling by over 80% in the last decade, solar is more affordable than ever before. Imagine coming home after your Christmas break, switching on your lights, heating and appliances, knowing much of the energy powering them is free and clean.
Take control of your energy bills this festive season. Contact SolarTherm UK today for a free no obligation quote and design, tailored to your property, usage and future energy needs. No hard sell, just honest, expert advice.
Your home. Your energy. Your future.
