Energy Efficiency - are you doing your
bit?
Did you know that each year every home in Thanet releases an
average 7.5 tonnes of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere?
This is a result of using fossil fuels for providing central
heating and hot water. The Council aims to reduce the average
figure to 5 tonnes by 2010 by promoting energy efficiency
improvements.
Everybody can do their bit to help, the top ten energy saving
tips are:
- Switch off the TV at the set. If left on stand-by with the red
light on it uses up to 25% of the power.
- Take a shower instead of a bath; it uses less than half the hot
water and can save £5 - £10 a year.
- Put aluminium foil behind any radiators fitted on outside walls
and save up to £10 a year.
- Install low energy bulbs in lights that are left on for more
than three hours a day.
- Turn the thermostat down 1oc and save £15 - £30 a
year.
- Use your washing machine sensibly. Wait until you have a full
load and choose a cool cycle of 40oc for most
washing.
- Don't overfill your kettle. Only put in the water you
need.
- Choose the right size pan for cooking and use the lid. Choose
the right size ring to fit the pan or turn down the gas.
- Put the fridge or freezer in a cool place.
- Draw the curtains in the evening when it's cold and the heating
is on.