Reducing energy consumption: good for the planet and your pocket…

Date Published: 22 Apr 2026
Wide view across the Caritas community allotment at the Lalley CEntre in North Manchester, including trees and growing beds

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We believe that everyone deserves to live in a safe, healthy and secure environment.
All of the work we do is grounded by Catholic Social Teaching and, in 2019, Bishop John Arnold wrote that everyone in the diocese should play their part in responding to climate change in small ways. In his letter, he asked us all to ‘think global, act local’ and highlighted the impact that making small changes in our personal lives can have.

Our energy advice service team supports people to lower their household’s energy consumption using small, everyday measures – these help the planet by reducing fossil fuel consumption and the amount of pollutants in the atmosphere.

Here, the team shares some top tips on how you can reduce your energy consumption at home.

Hands taking white sheets from a washing machine drum
  • Wash your clothes at cooler temperatures, on shorter cycles. Most detergents work perfectly fine at 30°C for 30 minutes.
  • Also, make sure you fully load the drum to make the most out of the wash.
  • Take shorter, cooler showers. Try to stick to four-minute long showers to reduce your gas and water bills.
  • Make the most of mother nature and dry your clothes outside where possible. You can use a clothes horse  or a washing line during the summer months.
  • Switch to energy efficient LED bulbs and turn the lights off when they are not in use.
  • In fact, switch off all your appliances at the plug when they are not in use.
  • Programme your thermostat and heating controls to avoid over-heating your house.
  • Install a smart meter and use it regularly to monitor your gas and electric usage.

There are longer-term sustainable options for renewable energy instead of fossil fuels too. These include heat pumps and solar panels.

This isn’t an option for everyone, but if it’s something you’re considering and need further advice and information, get in touch.

We’re always happy to help and you can find us at one of our regular free drop-in sessions, or can get in touch by emailing energyadvice@caritassalford.org.uk if you have any questions about reducing yuor energy consumption or concerns about affording your energy bills.  We can also be contacted by calling 0161 205 2754.

Let’s all pledge to reduce our energy consumption wherever we can!

Hands holding a lightbulb


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