Surprising Facts about
Home Energy Usage

by Marcus Gallon
(London, England, UK)

Many of us only consider our home energy usage when our monthly utility bills arrive in the mail.

Otherwise, we go on about our daily business without realising how much energy we're wasting - and how it would be to save it instead. By learning the facts about home energy usage - and wastage - you can become inspired to save money on your home energy bills. Take a look at the facts that are highlighted below to get started.

Facts About the Energy Used for Daily Tasks and Appliances

* In the UK, we spend approximately £700 million per year on the electricity needed to power consumer electronics alone.

* Even when not switched on, TVs in the UK cost households money to the tune of £50 million annually.

* Unused - but plugged in - VCRs cost UK households approximately £113 million per year.

* Tumble dryers, dishwashers and washing machines tack on an extra £800 million to home energy bills in the UK every year.

* Lighting comprises approximately 10% to 15% of the average electricity bill. Households in the UK spend about £1.2 billion annually in order to keep their foods and drinks cool or frozen.
£5 billion worth of energy is wasted in the UK each and every year.

* Up to 25% of the heat that the average UK household pays for escapes through windows.
About 40% of the power that is used by a tumble dryer is generated while it's on stand-by.

The Impact that Positive Changes Can Make

* Hot water cylinder thermostats can be set to around 60 C in order to save money on gas.

* Home insulation can make a huge difference. By insulating a home's hot water cylinder with a jacket, the average household can save approximately £15 per year.

* By turning down the thermostat in a home by just 1°C, the average household can reduce its home energy bill by about 10%.

* Keeping drapes and shades pulled can keep heat from escaping through windows, which is an excellent form of home insulation that can reduce energy bills considerably.

* Energy efficient appliances can make a huge difference when it comes to home energy. Energy efficient dishwashers can reduce energy wastage by half.

The average UK household could save about £200 each year by using energy efficient appliance and habits!.

Energy efficient washing machines use one-third of the energy of older, less efficient models.
An energy efficient fridge can save a household approximately £35 per year.

Hot water and heating account for approximately half of the average home energy bill. Home insulation and an updated, energy efficient hot water cylinder can help reduce the total amount by a significant margin.