UCL (University College London) found that for each 1℃ decrease in the thermostat setting between 22℃ and 18℃, an average home used around £130 less energy.

Save Energy and Money: The Impact of Adjusting Your Home Thermostat

With rising energy costs and the increasing urgency of addressing climate change, households across the globe are looking for ways to reduce their energy consumption. A study from the University College London (UCL) provides some enlightening insights into one of the simplest ways households can cut costs and consumption: adjusting the thermostat. Here's a deep dive into what the UCL article suggests and how it can be beneficial for you.

Key Findings

Potential Savings: One of the most striking findings from UCL is that even a small adjustment in the thermostat can lead to significant savings on energy bills. For instance, turning down the thermostat by just one degree can reduce energy bills by a substantial percentage.

Environmental Impact: Along with the monetary savings, reducing the thermostat setting can have a notable positive impact on the environment. Lowering the temperature means burning fewer fossil fuels, which leads to a decrease in carbon emissions.

Behavioral Shift: The study also highlights the importance of developing a more energy-conscious behavior. While the thermostat plays a crucial role, other habits like ensuring your home is well-insulated or turning off lights when they're not needed can amplify the benefits.

Tips for Saving Energy:

Optimize Thermostat Settings: As the UCL study suggests, consider lowering your thermostat by a degree or two during the colder months. You might not even notice the temperature difference, but you will likely see the savings. In summer, do the opposite for cooling systems – increase the temperature slightly.

Smart Thermostats: Invest in a smart thermostat. These devices can learn your daily routines and adjust the heating and cooling automatically, ensuring optimal temperature when you're home and energy savings when you're not.

Regular Maintenance: Ensure that your heating and cooling systems are serviced regularly. A well-maintained system runs more efficiently and can save you money in the long run.

Insulate Your Home: Proper insulation keeps the heat in during the winter and out during the summer. This reduces the need for heating and cooling, leading to substantial savings.

Turn Off and Unplug: It’s simple but effective. Turn off lights, appliances, and electronics when not in use. Even when switched off, many appliances use 'standby' energy. Unplug them to prevent this energy drain.

Addressing climate change and managing household expenses require collective effort. Simple actions, as highlighted by the UCL study, can lead to significant results. By adjusting our thermostats and being conscious of our energy usage, not only can we save money but we can also play a part in reducing our carbon footprint. Every degree and every penny counts.  And then there is your personal COZY cushion to help keep warm!