Cut this page out. It contains tips for gas, electricity and water saving and advice on separate waste collection, for a more sustainable lifestyle.
GAS SAVING
- Regularly check boiler.
- Choose a high-performance boiler. Replace your old boiler.
- Insulate hot water pipes crossing unheated areas.
- Make sure windows and doors are draught-free.
- Place insulation between heaters and external walls.
- Insulate your attic.
- Use double glazing.
- Do not cover your radiators with drapes, curtains panels etc.
- Apply thermostat temperature controls to your radiators.
- Lower the temperature at night and, if you can, install an automatic temperature regulator.
- Set the winter home temperature at max. 20°C.
- When cooking, use pan lids and moderate flame.
- Use daylight as much and as well as possible.
- Use low-consumption bulbs.
- Choose A, A+ and A++ or Energy+ household appliances (position away from heat sources).
- Use low temperature settings for your appliances (no more than 60°).
- Always turn lights and appliances off when not in use (avoiding using stand-by mode).
- Refrigerator and freezer doors should be opened and closed quickly.
- Set fridge thermostat to medium.
- Set air conditioners to 20°C (winter) and to no more than 8°C less than outside (summer).
- Make sure your electric bathwater heater is maintained regularly.
WATER SAVING
- Repair any home tap leaks.
- Choose a shower instead of a bath.
- Choose variable volume toilet flush units.
- Use washing machines and dishwashers when you have a full load; do not use half-load settings. Set temperatures low.
- Apply jet-reducing water-saving tap heads.
- Don't leave the water running when you don't need it while you're brushing your teeth, washing your hair, shaving or hand-washing dishes.
- Use containers for water reuse; the water you use to wash vegetables can also be used to water the plants. The water you cook with acts as an effective detergent. Use it to wash the dishes.
- Water your house plants in the evening. Night-water your garden (mist-spray).
- Always close your mains connection when away on holiday etc.
- When washing your car, use a bucket. Don't use a hose.
- When all taps have been closed, check to see if the meter is running up consumption. If it is, you probably have a leak.
- Choose products with little packaging.
- When you can, use natural or biodegradable materials.
- Take your waste to the bins in the evening (above all, during the summer months)
- Separate waste according to instructions from the local government authority.
- Crush waste for space saving.
- Always put your waste in the right bag.
- Never leave bags, cardboard boxes or packaging of any kind on the ground beside bins or skips.
- Take bulky waste to your local ecological station or drop-off point, or call for free disposal arrangements
- If you have garden, you might think of using your food scraps as compost.
- Drink tap water. Save on waste.