Electricity & electrical appliances

Iron

• Iron all items in one session, to avoid having to reheat the iron.
• Make sure you select the appropriate thermostat settings. Iron high-temperature items first, then medium, then switch off and use the residual heat for lower temperature fabrics such as silk.
• Certain items, such as towels, underwear etc. do not need to be ironed.
• If your ironing is interrupted, e.g. by a visitor or a long phone call, switch off your iron to save energy and for safety's sake.

Water Heater

• Choose the right size for your family's needs - e.g. 15-20 litres storage capacity for a family of four - and one with a wide range of temperature control. Or use an instantaneous water heater.
• If you use a storage heater, make sure it is well insulated.
• Switch the heater off after use, or install a timer for maximum efficiency.
• Do not set to a very high temperature, and reduce the thermostat setting in summer.
• Take a shower instead of a bath. You'll save about 50% in water heating costs.
• A low-flow shower head also saves water and heating energy.
• Don't leave hot water running when shaving, rinsing dishes etc. Use cold water where hot water is not absolutely necessary.
• Keep the distance between heater and taps as short as possible.