At LiveWest, we’re committed to creating greener futures together. This guide shares simple ways to stay warm and eco-friendly this winter without increasing your energy bills. Saving energy not only helps the environment, it also saves you money.
 

Five simple tips to make your home more energy efficient:

1. Seal and insulate your home
   Drafts and gaps make your heating work harder. Check around windows, doors, and pipe entries for cold air leaks. Use caulk or weatherstripping to seal gaps. Adding insulation to your attic or walls will help keep warm air in during winter and out during summer.

    

2. Switch to LED lights
   LED bulbs use up to 75% less energy and last far longer than older bulbs. Replace bulbs in the rooms you use most, such as the kitchen or living room. Adding dimmers or timers can also help ensure lights aren’t left on unnecessarily.

    

3. Adjust your heating
   Heating is often the biggest energy cost. In winter, set your thermostat between 18°C and 21°C when you’re home, and turn it down slightly when you’re out. Clean or replace air filters regularly, and use ceiling fans to circulate warm air so your system doesn’t have to work as hard.

    

4. Choose energy-efficient appliances
   Washing machines, fridges, and dishwashers with higher energy ratings use less power. The efficiency scale runs from A (most efficient) to G (least). Choose the right-sized appliance for your home and select A-rated options where possible to reduce long-term running costs.

    

5. Get a smart meter
   Smart meters show how much energy you’re using in real time, making it easier to spot where you can cut back. Contact your energy provider to arrange installation and start monitoring your usage.

Important tips for safe energy savings

Always keep safety in mind. Don’t switch off essential features like extractor fans or boiler safety settings, which help prevent problems such as mould or Legionella. Keep your home warm enough—18°C to 21°C is a safe range for most rooms.

For more information about EPC ratings and your home’s performance, visit our Energy Performance webpage.