Friday, July 16, 2010

A device that measures how much energy is being used in the home is now available to residents for free, thanks to Swindon Borough Council.

Fifty micro energy monitors are available for loan from six libraries for a period of one week each.

The monitors will tell residents how much electricity they are using in kWh and how much it is costing. This will help residents to recognise where they can cut down on their energy use saving both carbon, and money.

It is estimated that over £900 million is wasted in the UK every year, by leaving domestic appliances on when not in use. Here are ten tips for saving energy:

  • Change light bulbs to energy saving versions
  • Switch off electronic goods such as TVs, videos, DVDs and games console at wall sockets when not in use
  • Remove all telephone chargers from mains when not in use
  • Use tumble dryers less and if possible dry outside
  • Fill washing machines and dishwashers to maximum for each load
  • Wash clothes at a cooler temperature
  • Only boil the amount of water necessary when making tea or coffee
  • Use sensor detecting outside lights
  • When changing appliances, ensure that you purchase items with the best energy rating
  • Check your micro energy monitor for the background level before going to bed at night

Cllr Brian Mattock, Cabinet Member for Housing, Community and Partnerships, said: “These monitors are brilliant devices for finding out how much energy every day household objects are costing us in money and energy. By taking some small steps, we can collectively save masses of carbon which could go some way to protecting the environment from further harm, and we benefit from saving money.”

The monitors are available from the following libraries:

Anyone taking out a monitor must be a member of Swindon Libraries and a resident of the borough.