How to spring clean your energy habits for a more sustainable, cost-effective household

Ready to spring clean your energy routine? According to research commissioned by Pinergy, Ireland’s leading energy transition company, 74% of Irish adults plan to spring clean this year, with 3 in 4 of those planning to take on better energy habits as part of their spring clean.

The Pinergy research also shows that difficulty changing bad energy habits is the number one reason preventing Irish households from adopting more energy-efficient practices, along with a lack of awareness of how to be more energy efficient.

First things first – you need to understand your high and low usage appliances. Just under 25% of adults are still unaware of the energy-saving settings on our appliances, like the eco-wash on your dishwasher or the cold wash on your washing machine. Remember, your electrical appliances that heat or cool use the most electricity; kettles, fridges, ovens and microwaves all top the list of high energy users.

Secondly, get smarter about how you use your high energy appliances. “Small changes can make a big difference, both for individual households and the environment, “ says David Slattery, Head of Communications at Pinergy. “By taking these few simple steps and incorporating energy habits into your spring clean this year, households can contribute to a greener future while saving money on their energy bills.”

These easy tips set out some of the simple actions you can take this spring to avoid any unnecessary energy over-consumption in your home.

Know your energy hogs

Showers: Showers are your friend. Ditch the long, luxurious baths; they use a lot more energy. A low-flow showerhead can also make a big splash in your savings.

Tumble dryers: Embrace the fresh spring air! Line-drying your clothes is the most energy-efficient way to go. If you must use the dryer, make sure it’s packed full and use the eco-mode.

Washing machines: Most clothes don’t need a hot wash, so switch to a colder setting and choose the shortest cycle that gets the job done. And remember, a full load is a happy load (for your wallet and the planet).

Kettles: Boil only the amount of water needed. So if you’re making a cup of coffee, just boil what you need for the cup – not the full kettle!

Ovens: Resist the urge to peek! Every time you open the oven door, you’re letting precious heat escape. And skip the preheat whenever possible.

Refrigerators and freezers: Give your fridge and freezer a little TLC. Make sure the doors are sealed tight and avoid overfilling them.

Lighten up

Flip the switch: Throw open those curtains and blinds and let the natural light flood in – it’s good for the planet. And when you leave a room, don’t forget to turn off the lights. It’s a small action with a big impact.

Switch to LEDs: LED bulbs use way less energy than traditional halogen bulbs and last much longer.

Turn it off

Unplug and unwind: Many devices and appliances suck up energy even when they’re not in use. These “phantom loads” are sneaky energy vampires. Unplug them when you’re not using them, or use a power strip to easily switch them off all at once.

Fight the red-light monster: That little red light on your TV or other appliances is a sign that energy is being wasted. Turn devices off at the socket to banish the red-light monster and save on your energy bills.

Charge smart: Don’t overcharge your devices. Once they’re fully charged, unplug them. It’s good for your battery’s health and your wallet.