Hints and tips

Many of these hints and tips are little more than common sense and becoming more aware about energy use and wastage. But the more you incorporate them into your daily routines, the more 'second nature' they will become, potentially saving you a lot of money and significantly reducing your use of energy, water and other resources.

Fridges and freezers

• Site your fridge and freezer in a cool (but not very cold) position.
• Don't leave the fridge door open and make sure the seals are tight.
• Keep your fridge temperature setting between 3°C and 5°C; settings lower than this are wasting energy.
• Don't overstock your fridge. Make sure it is no more than three quarters full, allowing cool air to circulate more easily.
• Clean the condenser coils at the back of the fridge - if dust builds up it can waste up to 30% more energy.
• If buying a new fridge or freezer choose a really energy efficient one - check sust-it and the European Energy Label - A++ is the best.

Home entertainment

• Switch off machines at the mains when not in use, don't leave them in standby mode.
• Repair things when they break rather than throwing them away.
• Check the energy consumption of any new appliances you are thinking of buying, including how much energy they use on standby.
• Go for a smaller TV screen.
• Invest in a wind-up radio.

Water

• Fix dripping taps - one dripping tap could fill a bath in a week!
• Don't leave taps running when brushing your teeth or washing your hands.
• Install a water meter to help you monitor water use - free of charge from your water company.
• Showers use much less water than a bath - typically 30 litres compared with 110 litres - but power showers can use as much as a bath.
• Use a bowl if you only have a small amount of washing up.
• Dishwashers use a lot of energy and water so only use them when they are full and use energy/water saving options if possible.
• Wait until you have a full load before using the washing machine.
• Use a cooler temperature when washing clothes - modern detergents are designed to be effective at 30°C or 40°C
• When buying a new washing machine or dishwater choose one that is both water-efficient and energy-efficient.
• Get a water butt to collect rainwater for your garden.

Flooring, furniture and furnishings

• Consider repairing and restoring items rather than replacing them.
• Look for second-hand items in charity shops and auctions.
• Join Freecycle.
• Consider the environmental impact of new items before buying them.
• If buying cork tiles make sure they are not PVC coated, or buy unsealed ones and seal them yourselves.
• Ask suppliers and retailers about the environmental impact of their products and their policies regarding chemical pollutants, the environment and social responsibility generally.