When temperatures rise, many households naturally expect their energy use to fall. While you may no longer need to run the heating as often, summer can bring its own energy costs, from fans and cooling appliances to increased use of showers, washing machines and garden equipment.

The good news is that a few simple changes can make a real difference. By reviewing your household habits, you can enjoy a more energy-efficient summer, helping keep your energy costs under control.

1 – Make the Most of Natural Daylight

Longer days mean more hours of free light. Open your curtains and blinds during the daytime to brighten your home naturally and reduce the need to use your electric lightbulbs.

If you do leave a room, remember to switch lights off behind you. It may seem like a small step, but it can reduce your electricity use over time and save on your bills.

2 – Switch off Your Heating

The weather can be unpredictable, but many households leave their heating programmed to come on automatically – even during the summer months. This means your heating could be kicking in and costing you money.

Take a few minutes to check your thermostat settings and heating schedule. If temperatures are consistently warm enough, turning your heating off completely could help reduce unnecessary energy use.

Make sure your system is still set to provide you with hot water where needed.

3 – Choose Fans Over air Conditioning

Air conditioning units can be expensive to run and use significantly more electricity than standard fans.

Before investing in air conditioning, consider whether a portable or ceiling fan could provide enough cooling. Keeping windows shaded during the hottest part of the day and creating a breeze by opening windows in the early morning and evening can also help keep your home comfortable.

4 – Wash Clothes at Lower Temperatures

Modern washing liquids are designed to work effectively at lower temperatures.

Washing clothes at 30°C instead of higher settings can help reduce energy bills UK households face, as most of the energy used by a washing machine goes towards heating the water. Only use hotter cycles when necessary for hygiene reasons or heavily soiled items.

5 – Dry Clothes Outside Whenever Possible

Take advantage of warm weather by hanging washing outdoors rather than using a tumble dryer.

Tumble dryers are among the most energy-intensive and expensive appliances. Drying clothes on a washing line or clothes airer outside can significantly reduce electricity use while helping your laundry smell fresher too.

6 – Unplug Devices You Aren’t Using

Some appliances continue using electricity even when they’re switched off. This is sometimes known as standby power.

Televisions, games consoles, chargers and kitchen appliances can all contribute to unnecessary energy consumption. Switching devices off at the plug when not in use could help lower your electricity bill over time.

7 – Be Smart With Cooking

Summer is a great opportunity to reduce oven use. Consider preparing cold meals, salads or using smaller appliances such as microwaves, slow cookers or air fryers where appropriate. These often use less energy than heating a full-sized oven and can also help keep your kitchen cooler.

8 – Keep your Fridge and Freezer Working Efficiently

During warmer weather, fridges and freezers may need to work harder to stay cool. Try not to leave doors open longer than necessary and allow cooked food to cool before placing it inside. Regularly checking door seals, defrosting your freezer if needed, and keeping appliances reasonably full can also help them operate more efficiently.

9 – Take Shorter Showers

A long hot shower can use a surprising amount of water and energy. Reducing shower times by just a few minutes can help lower both water and energy costs. During hot weather, many people also find they can comfortably use slightly cooler water, reducing energy use further.

10 – Create an Energy Saving Checklist

One of the easiest ways to reduce energy bills is to develop simple habits that everyone in your household can follow.

An energy saving checklist could include:

  • Turning off lights when leaving rooms
  • Unplugging unused devices
  • Regularly defrosting your freezer
  • Only washing clothes when you have a full load, and hanging washing outside
  • Taking shorter showers
  • Making the most of daylight

Small changes may not seem significant on their own, but together they can make a noticeable difference over the summer months. If you’re worried about rising household costs or struggling with energy debt, remember that support is available. See our list of local advice centres for more information.