Simple steps to help improve energy efficiency and reduce your bills
Creating a greener, more energy‑efficient home doesn’t have to start with major renovations or high upfront costs. Whether you’re a homeowner or planning your next move, small changes can make a meaningful difference — helping to lower your energy bills, improve comfort, and reduce your environmental impact.
At the Cambridge Building Society, we’re here to support you with practical guidance at every stage of your homeownership journey.
Start with quick energy‑saving wins
Small, low‑cost improvements can reduce energy use straight away and are a great place to begin.
Switch to energy‑efficient lighting
Replacing traditional bulbs with LED alternatives is one of the simplest ways to improve energy efficiency at home.
- LED bulbs use less energy and last significantly longer than traditional bulbs.
- They can help reduce household energy costs over time.
Stop heat from escaping your home
Heat loss is one of the biggest drivers of high energy bills. Around 40% of heating energy can be lost through gaps in windows, doors and floors
Simple steps to reduce heat loss include:
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Fitting draught excluders or sealant strips
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Closing curtains in the evening to retain warmth
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Using a smart thermostat to better control your heating
Reduce energy waste from everyday appliances
Cutting unnecessary energy use is quick and effective:
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Turn appliances off at the wall instead of leaving them on standby
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Only run washing machines and dishwashers with full loads
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Unplug devices you’re not using regularly
These small habits can quickly add up to noticeable savings.
Make more sustainable choices at home
Rethink your cleaning routine
Switching to eco‑friendly or refillable cleaning products can help you create a greener home environment.
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Reduces exposure to harsh chemicals
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Cuts down on plastic waste
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Can be a cost‑effective alternative over time
Reduce food waste and save money
Being mindful about food use is another simple way to live more sustainably.
Benefits include:
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Lower weekly food costs
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Less waste sent to landfill
Top tips:
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Check cupboards and fridge contents before shopping
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Plan meals in advance
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Freeze leftovers for another day
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Compost food waste where possible
Keep your home energy efficient
Maintain your heating system
Your heating system plays a key role in your home’s energy efficiency.
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Book an annual boiler service to keep it running safely and efficiently
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Older boilers may use more energy — consider upgrading over time
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Efficient systems can help reduce energy consumption and costs
Thinking about bigger improvements?
Once you’ve made the everyday changes, you might consider longer‑term upgrades to improve your home’s energy performance:
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Improving insulation (loft, walls and floors)
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Upgrading windows and doors
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Installing low‑carbon heating systems, such as heat pumps
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Adding renewable energy options like solar panels
These improvements can:
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Lower energy bills
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Improve comfort all year round
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Increase your home’s value
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Support the UK’s transition to net zero
With millions of UK homes needing energy efficiency improvements before 2050, every step you take can make a difference.
Supporting you on your greener home journey
We understand that every home - and every homeowner - is different. That’s why The Cambridge is committed to helping our members make informed, confident choices.
We’re doing this by:
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Exploring our own real‑life retrofit project and sharing what we learn
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Providing practical guidance to improve home energy efficiency
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Supporting homeowners and buyers with trusted expertise
Whether you’re improving your current home or planning for the future, we’re here to help you create a home that’s more comfortable, more efficient, and better for the environment.
Take the next step
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Explore our guides on improving your home’s energy efficiency
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Learn more about EPC ratings and what they mean for your home
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