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Buildings use almost half of the UK’s generated energy, and when we combine the energy we use to heat, light and power our homes and offices, it's no wonder they are responsible for 30% of the country’s carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. As a result, it is up to all of us, whether a homeowner or tenant, employer or employee to ensure we use equipment as energy efficiently as possible. Whilst most Dimplex heating appliances come complete with built-in thermostats for energy saving, using your heating system efficiently will not only help the environment, but also save you money!

Energy efficiency tips around the home

Heating and hot water

1. Don't set the temperature too high...
For every 1°C the thermostat or heater is turned down, as much as 10% of the energy used is saved. And if you’re away during the winter, leave the thermostat on the frost protection setting to provide protection from freezing at a minimum cost.

2. Use it only when you need it..
Set the appropriate temperature on your heaters for the room they are in, for example, in the spare bedroom leave the thermostat on a lower setting.

3. The time is right...
Use Dimplex heaters fitted with timers to turn the heating on only when you need it and automatically switch to off when you don’t. Dimplex products used in conjunction with our central controller should be put in setback mode to save energy.

4. Curtains...
Close curtains or blinds at dusk to stop heat escaping through the windows.

5. Windows...
Nearly 25% of heat loss can occur through poorly insulated frames and single glazing. If you can’t afford to double glaze all your windows, go for the room you heat the most.

6. Treat your hot water tank...
Give it a jacket. An insulating jacket for hot water tanks only costs a few pounds and pays for itself within months. Fit one that’s at least 75mm (3”) thick and you could save £10-15 a year.

7. Water...
Use a shower if you have one to save time, money and water. Don’t set the thermostat too high on your water cylinder – 60°C / 140°F is usually adequate for bathing and washing. Put the plug in when running hot water in your sink – leaving taps running is both wasteful and expensive. Ensure dripping taps are repaired quickly. In just one day, you could waste a bathful of water.

Other energy saving tips for around the home

1. Lights...
Turn off lights whenever you leave a room for more than 10 minutes. Use low energy bulbs wherever you can as they use less than a quarter of the electricity used by ordinary bulbs and last 10 times longer!

2. Cooking...
Use the right size pan for the food and cooker hob. Keep saucepan lids on – this enables you to turn down the heat. Boil water for cooking in a kettle. Use a toaster rather than a grill to make toast. Avoid over filling the kettle for one drink, but be sure to cover the element.

3. Washing Machines...
Wait until you have a full load, or use the half load or economy programme if your machine has one. Use your machine at the lowest temperature you can.

4. Televisions and HI-FI...
Switch off your TV, DVD and Hi-Fi at the mains. Stand-by can use as much as 10%-60% of the electricity used when it is fully switched on.

5. Fridges and Freezers...
Defrost fridges and freezers regularly to keep them running efficiently. Don’t leave the door open longer than necessary. Don't put hot or warm food straight into the fridge – let it cool down first.

Energy efficiency tips in the workplace

Whilst many of the items listed above will be relevant to the workplace, there are certain areas which need specific attention:

1. Lighting...
Fit PIR sensors to lighting, so it only comes on when people are in the area. And make the most of natural light – it's free and won’t damage the environment – keep windows clear and make the most of the daylight.

2. Printers & Copiers...
Have an energy efficient champion in each department who makes sure printers and photocopies are all turned off at night and at weekends – you’ll be amazed at the savings you will make.

3. PCs & Monitors...
Make sure staff switch their monitors off at weekends and during holidays. On average offices waste £6,000 each year by leaving equipment on over weekends and bank holidays.

4. Draught Excluders...
If you have a working environment that entails keeping draughty doors open all the time, or sees regular opening and closing of doors, invest in an air curtain which works like an invisible barrier and keeps draughty cold air out and warm air in.