Wellstead Team 
We have compiled a list of some helpful tips on saving energy around your home. These tips reduce our carbon footprint and in turn reduce our utility bills also.
In the Kitchen
Boling water in an electrical kettle is more efficient then boiling water on the cooktop.
Try and thaw out food in the fridge before putting in the microwave to thaw out completely.
When using the Oven, try and not open the door too often as every time the door is opened the Oven loses heat and must use energy to heat up again.
Do not overstock your fridge and freezer. The more food in your fridge/freezer the longer it takes to cool and harder the appliance needs to work. Make sure your fridge’s temperature is between 3 degree and 5 degrees for most efficiency.
Defrost your freezer if the ice becomes too thick. You can defrost your freezer by filling up a large bowl with hot water and putting it inside the freezer once switched off.
Always try and use the economy cycle on your Dishwasher where possible.
Heating and cooling your home
Use heating and cooling zones so only the rooms you are in are heated or cooled.
Keep your curtains and blinds closed during the day which you are out. This will reduce the amount of sunlight entering your home and keep the house cooler.
Fans are good at circulating air throughout your home and are much more cost effective on days that are not very hot.
Regularly service your air conditioning system so they are running at their optimum.
Setting the correct temperature is very important. 18 to 20 degrees is a good temperature during Summer and 22 to 24 degrees during Winter.
Lighting
It is always better to use energy efficient globes where possible. Try replacing your globes with compact florescent light bulbs and you will reduce your bills and the frequency you will need to replace your globes.
Make sure to switch off lights in rooms no one is using.
Solar lighting the garden not only looks great it is free. So take advantage of our sunny climate by decorating your garden beds and balconies with solar lights
Bathroom
Showers are more water efficient the baths. Reducing your showing time will save you water and money and keeping the water at a temperature of 50 degrees is also more efficient.
Laundry
Wash clothes on economical cycles where possible. Washing clothes in cold water not only saves your bills, it also keeps your coloured clothes brighter. Front loader washing machines are more efficient then top loaders and the newer the machine the more efficient it will be.
Clothes Dryers can damage your clothes. Always try and use a clothes line or clothes horse to dry your clothes. It can take a bit longer however your clothes will keep the smell of the detergent or fabric conditioner and they will last longer.
General Tips
Always switch appliances off after use.
Switch off wall lights and lamps in rooms no one is using.
Switch television off at the wall and do not leave your TV on standby.
Shutdown your computer at night time to save on your bill.
When purchasing new appliances check their star rating. This will tell you how economical and efficient the appliance will be. The more stars the better!!
