Did you know that according to the Home Builders Federation, you could save up on average £2,510.73 a year on energy bills by living in a new build property, as opposed to an older one? This is because nearly all new build homes benefit from building innovations and new technologies such as advanced heating systems and LED lighting, that help most of them reach a minimum EPC rating of B. Homes with a higher EPC rating are more energy efficient and as such, result in lower energy bills.

It’s clearly an important factor, especially when you consider that almost three quarters (73%) of first-time buyers say it’s likely that their decision to buy a new build home will be affected by the tendency for new builds to be more energy efficient than older builds.

But the savings don’t have to stop at simply buying a new build. There are still loads of quick and cost-effective tips that you can implement to boost those savings even further.

LAUNDRY

Everyone knows that washing machines and tumble dryers can be a drain on energy, especially if used uneconomically. Particularly during the winter months, it can also be tempting to use the tumble dryer more often. Here are some tips to keep the energy spend on laundry down.

• Fully loaded – every time you put the washing machine on, make sure you’re really maximising capacity. If you don’t fully load the washing machine, you’re just going to end up using it more often. Try waiting a couple of days for your laundry basket to build up or, if you’re living with a partner or your buddy, combine you laundry!
• Make the most of the heating – when do you typically have your heating on? First thing in the morning? Right before bed? Whenever it may be, timing your laundry to finish around these times can be a great way to dry your clothes quicker and therefore limit the temptation/need to use your tumble dryer.

IN THE KITCHEN

We tend to spend a lot of time in the kitchen, so it’s no surprise that this is where we use up most of our energy. Thankfully, there are lots of nifty tips to help you be more energy efficient whilst cooking up a storm:

• Keep a lid on it – A simple one, but keeping the lid on your pots and pans when cooking ensures that the heat stays in the pot and speeds up the cooking process, limiting the amount of time that you need your gas or electric hob on. Exception to the rule is when you’re trying to reduce a beautiful Bolognese or sensational curry sauce!
  
  
• Air fryers - Everyone’s new favorite kitchen accessory. Not only do air fryers give you great tasting food, but they use up significantly less energy than a standard oven. According to the eco experts, a 1,500 kWh air fryer on average will cost around 51p per hour, whereas a 2,200 kWh electric oven costs around 85p per hour.
  
  
• Freezer care - Defrosting your freezer when you notice a glacier-like build up is a great way to save on energy. The build-up of frost increases the amount of work your freezer’s motor has to do and consequently, the amount of electricity it needs. Defrost to lessen the strain on the motor and your back pocket!

STAYING WARM

Keeping the cold at bay has been a challenge for many over the last couple of winters, with the increasing cost of gas and electricity. Whilst we can’t change the prices of these utilities, there are a few ways we can help you manage them better…

• Strategy – Most modern central heating systems – like the ones you’d find in a Fairview home - have a timer function that allows you to preset your heating temperature and timings. This is a great way to ensure you don’t overspend on energy and prevents you from wasting heat when you might not be around. Just remember to turn it off when you go on holiday!
• Wrap up – Instead of running straight to the thermostat when you’re feeling the chill, make sure you’re wrapped up properly. Grab your fluffiest socks and thickest jumper to help save a few quid on your heating costs.
• Air flow - Draught excluders are a simple yet cost effective way to stop cold air flowing through your home and keep the warm air locked in, meaning you won’t need to have your heating on as high or for as long.
  
  

NIFTY GADGETS

There are tons of useful gadgets out there at affordable prices that can help you run your home more efficiently. We’ve listed a couple of our favorites that soon pay back on their initial investment:

Heated clothes airer – In the winter, it takes longer than usual for your clothes to dry, particularly if you live in a smaller space. Try investing in a heated clothes airer - they use up much less energy than a tumble dryer and are an affordable investment. 

Smart plugs - A smart plug is a plug socket adapter that you can use to control appliances remotely – all you need is WiFi and a smart phone. They can help you save on energy because instead of leaving things plugged in and on standby (this still consumes energy), you can remotely switch everything off. Plus, if you ever leave the house in a hurry, you can turn your appliances off whilst on the move!