last updated 10th August 05
By 4ecotips

Flicking the switch pays dividends

Forgetting to carry out essentials such as turning lights off and switching the television off standby is increasing the cost of our summer holidays. 13% of Brits surveyed left the television on standby for the duration of their holiday, costing a collective £250,000 in wasted energy. A further 8% had neglected to turn all the lights off, squandering a further £3m worth of energy.

The EST says remembering to carry out small energy-saving measures can make a difference to our energy bills and help to reduce carbon dioxide emissions - the key contributor to climate change. The Trust has created a 7-point pre-travel checklist so holiday-makers can ensure their trip doesn't cost more then it needs to. For instance:

1. Let the milkman know: 8% of those surveyed had forgotten to cancel the milk delivery before their holiday. Make sure you let the milkman know your plans so soured milk doesn't clutter the doorstep on your return.

2. Switch off and relax: 13% left their TV on standby during their two week break. Appliances still use electricity even when they_re not being used, making your meter whiz round even when you are away. So turn all appliances off standby and then you can relax knowing that you won't be adding £s to your electricity bill.

3. Batten down the hatches: 7% forgot to lock up properly, prior to their holiday, and some faced extra costs on their return. Ensure you check all the doors and windows are securely locked.

4. Pay-up: 15% forgot to pay their household bills before escaping to the sun and almost a third of those returned to find late payment fines on the doorstep. Check that ther aren't any unpaid bills lurking in your post tray before you leave

5. Eat up and clear out: 26% forgot to clear out the fridge before departing, returning to some nasty surprises. Ensure you ransack the fridge before leaving and donate any leftovers to a friendly neighbour

6. When the lights go out: 8% left the lights on during their summer holiday. Do a recce of the house before you leave, making sure all lights have been switched off. If you do choose to leave a light on for security reasons, why not replace your standard bulb with an energy-saving one? For each bulb you fit, you could save up to £7 on your annual electricity bill, or £78 over the lifetime of the bulb.

7. Neighbourhood Watch: 15% of Brits forgot to leave a key with the neighbour. Ask someone to keep an eye on your property and give them a key in case of emergency.