The approach of Christmas and the change in weather as winter creeps in are just two of the reasons why this time of year can be a strain on our finances.
As well as the festivities to pay for, there is cost of heating, cooking and washing during the colder months.
But with research showing that new homes are up to six times more energy efficient than older second hand ones – it is no wonder more and more house hunters are opting for brand new.
Better insulation, double-glazing and monitoring of water usage are among the many benefits associated with energy efficient homes – not only kind to the environment, but also to your pocket.
With energy prices a constant talking point at this time of year, and numerous incentives to help curb the cost of moving, there has never been a better time to buy - says developer Linden Homes Midlands.
Sales director Chris Roads said: “We take our responsibilities in the areas of energy efficiency and sustainability very seriously.
“As part of the Government’s directive and our own responsibility towards the environment, our new homes meet with all the relevant regulations. Energy efficient new homes are well insulated and include double-glazing as standard – automatically making them cheaper to run than many older style homes.
“All new homes are fitted with a water meter which tends to encourage people to be more water efficient. Using less hot water, coupled with the fact that new homes are more energy efficient than older homes, will mean lower bills if used properly.”
So – you’ve moved into your brand new home and are already saving money on your utility bills. But what can you as a homeowner do to be even more energy savvy and save money? *
- You can save around £43 a year just by using your kitchen appliances more carefully.
- Set your washing machine to wash at 30°C.
- Use a bowl to wash up rather than leaving the hot tap running. Don’t fill your kettle up every time, only boil the amount of water you need.
- Turning the room thermostat down by just one degree can save around £75 a year.
- Use energy efficient light bulbs that use less energy and last up to 10 times longer than standard bulbs. Most new Linden Homes properties will use 75 per cent energy efficient light fittings as standard.
- Linden Homes will fully draught proof your home. Figures show a fully draught proof home could save around £20-£30 a year. Don’t forget to keep doors closed in rooms you are using to keep the heat in.
- Turn off household appliances such as microwaves, TVs, videos, music systems, and computers when not in use, as they continue to use energy when they are left on standby. A typical household can save between £45 and £80 a year just by remembering to turn off appliances left on standby.
- Defrost your fridge frequently and check the door seals.
- Boilers account for around 55 per cent of what is spent on energy bills in a year. Your new home will have a shiny new super energy efficient one.
- If you have a standard shower it will use around 40 per cent of the water required for a bath. Some water companies are giving showerheads away for free. Contact your water company to see if you are eligible. By installing a water efficient shower head, a family of four could save around £65 a year on gas for water heating, as well as a further £95 on water bills if they have a water meter.
* energy saving trust
For more information on new homes being built in your area please visit www.lindenhomes.co.uk and for more energy saving tips visit www.energysavingtrust.co.uk
-ENDS-
For further press information please contact Cetti Long at Media Matters on 01733 371363 or email cetti@mediamatters-pr.co.uk
