How to save energy when working from home

Claim government support

The government offers a tax relief to assist with additional energy costs. You can either claim this back from them directly, or you may be able to do so via your employer if they have an agreement set up. If they do, they’ll pay you a tax-free sum instead.

Turn the heating down

We all like to be cozy and warm at home, especially during the winter months. But turning your heating down, even by as little as a degree or two, can save you money on your energy bills. Alternatively, you could set your heating to a timer or just heat a single room, installing draught blockers to trap the warmth. Additionally, putting on extra layers of clothing will help and when else will you get to wear your fluffiest PJ’s in the office?

Install a smart meter

With the smart meter rollout well under way, why not request one sooner? Along with turning your heating down, they’re the most effective way of reducing your energy bill as they give you accurate oversight and control of your consumption.

Turn off all appliances

If you’re not using it, switch it off at the mains. You’d be surprised by how much leaving appliances plugged in uses energy. At the end of the day, switch off your computer rather than leaving it on standby too, as well as your TV and games console.

The same goes for lights, turn them off when you’re not in the room and switch to energy-efficient bulbs while you’re at it. See our guide for a full list of ways to save on your energy bills.

Embrace the natural

Opening curtains to natural light not only saves on electricity but improves mental wellbeing. In fact, without a daily commute there’s a real tendency to work even longer hours. Instead, try using that time to get outside for a walk, read a book and switch off from technology.

A word about tea and coffee

Tea and coffee are essential for most of us during our working day, even more so now we’re working from home. But boiling a kettle is actually one of the biggest energy-drainers, so here’s our advice: first, only boil as much water as you need and second, consider filling up a thermos with boiling water to use throughout the day instead.

Switch energy supplier

If your energy contract is coming to an end, we strongly suggest you search the market for a new tariff – you’re almost guaranteed to find a better deal. Along with forming good habits when it comes to energy efficiency, switching energy providers is a sure-fire way to save on your energy bill.