If energy bills are giving you the fear, you’re not alone. It can be hard to imagine how a student budget can stretch to some of the predicted price hikes this winter. But don’t feel down hearted – there are plenty of things that you can do to save energy and money.

Whether you are living in Leeds uni accommodation, a luxury student apartment or a large student house in Leeds, we have some tips that will work for you.

 

Get to know your energy tariffs

Make sure that you and your housemates understand what you will be charged. Some student houses might come with set bills that are covered as part of the rent, but others will be separate and might offer you some ways to save money. For example, some tariffs offer much cheaper electricity overnight, when general usage is lower.

If you have a washing machine and a dishwasher that can be put on a delayed start then use that, or just press start when you get in from a night out and remember to empty it in the morning. Charging phones and laptops overnight is another way to make the most of the cheap hours too.

 

Watch your heating

Large Leeds uni houses can be on the chilly side sometimes, and there’s no way to avoid using your central heating once we’re in the depths of winter. Think about how you use it though. Setting a timer for the morning and the evening and using a thermostat can keep you ticking over comfortably. Be wary of plug-in electric heaters too, as these can chew through energy at an eye watering rate.

 

Get a smart meter

By far the easiest way to get an understanding of your energy use, and keep a track of it, is by getting a smart meter. Watch it turn red as you boil the kettle, and it will quickly make you think about not using more water than you need. See the effects of the washing machine on the dial and you might be tempted to be a bit more careful with your clothes.

 

Work together

If you have a number of housemates, try to plan ahead to make the best use of things. Cooking together at the same time could mean that your oven is heating for just a short time, rather than repeatedly during the evening. Similarly, make sure that you understand where your hot water comes from, how often it is heated and how it is used? It could be the case that by thinking and planning ahead, you could make better use of your hot water tank.

 

Think about dinner time

Preparing food can use up a lot of energy, so it’s worth thinking about how you cook and what you eat. Microwaves are pretty cost effective and certainly cheaper than running an oven, so have a google of some recipes. Jamie Oliver made this spinach, sweet potato and chickpea curry in his microwave, and it’s delicious.

 

For more handy tips, and to check out the latest property listings for student houses in Leeds, browse our website.