Gas is one of the cleanest sources of energy among fossil fuels. But like all other forms of conventional energy, natural gas is also expensive. When you use gas efficiently, you help conserve precious fuel and also save money. Here are some simple but effective ways to do this.
1. Ensure proper insulation
Heat loss due to improper insulation is one of biggest sources of energy wastage. That’s why it is important to insulate your home to minimize heat loss. Walls, ceiling, attics, floor, doors and windows need to be properly insulated to prevent hot air from seeping out of the building. Effective insulation can keep heat loss to a minimum.
You can either hire experts to handle your home insulation or do it yourself. Some gas companies offer free assistance as a special offer or for groups such as senior citizens, and you can take advantage of this to save energy.
2. Turn the temperature setting down
Lowering the temperature setting on your thermostat by just a few degrees can reduce energy consumption significantly. You won’t even notice the difference and still save 10 percent or more in heating charges. If you feel cold, you could wear some warm clothing or put an extra layer.
At night, when you snuggle under warm blankets, you can set the thermostat even lower. If you are not going to be home, then turn the thermostat down and save on your energy consumption.
3. Keep your curtains closed
Curtains are effective insulators. So keep your curtains drawn in winter to retain the heat within the house. If you have large glass windows, choose to install double layer glass and use well-fitted curtains to prevent heat loss through the surface of the windows. Buy heavy drapes that completely seal off the window.
4. Double glazed windows
Double glazed windows are expensive, but the amount of energy they will save you justifies the expense. Double glaze windows effectively insulate the home. A thin layer of air trapped between the two glass surfaces acts as effective insulation.
5. Improve cooking efficiency
Cooking consumes a large amount of gas. A few simple but effective steps can improve your efficiency and simultaneously reduce gas usage. Use pots and pans of appropriate size for your cooking. When boiling liquids, turn the heat low as soon as the liquid reaches boiling point, because a high temperature is no longer needed to complete the cooking process. Keep the lid on the pot when cooking in order to retain heat and cook faster.
6. Get your boiler checked periodically
Proper maintenance of your domestic heating system will reduce gas wastage and improve heating efficiency. Get your furnace checked before winter sets in to ensure that it is in peak working condition. Repairing a boiler after it has broken down completely can be expensive. If your water heater is very old, replace it with a modern energy-efficient model that will save you money by lowering heating costs.
7. Seal any gaps
Doors and windows which are not properly closed result in heat loss. Draughts that blow in or out of gaps around them can waste heat. Seal the gaps and cut off the draughts to minimize heat loss and maximize your savings.
Sam Jones is the author of this article and recommends the uSwitch gas and electricity comparison website for energy saving tips and comprehensive advice on energy related matters
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