Autumn energy-saving tips
With autumn upon us it’s a good time to focus some mental energy on top tips for better energy efficiency. We’ve come up with a list of 8 simple but effective ways to save energy and money. These are easy steps we can all take to help keep the lid on our energy costs and lighten the financial strain on us as we work hard to reduce our spending within DCHS. And you can adopt them at home too. From supplies to electricity, heating, and water... what we save on resources means more money for patient care. Collectively our small, everyday actions can lead to big savings and boost our resilience.
As the days get shorter and the lights go on earlier, it’s more important than ever to use energy wisely. Every unit we save helps ease the financial strain on the NHS and supports patient care. Watch for weekly energy-saving tips this autumn, and if you’ve got a bright idea, email it to dchst.communications@nhs.net – we’d love to hear your suggestions.
Tip of the week: Switch off lights in empty rooms.
One light left on overnight can cost up to £25 a year. Multiply that across the Trust, and the numbers climb fast!
Chilly mornings make it tempting to leave things running, but powering down is one of the simplest ways to save. Every small action helps.
Tip of the week: Shut down computers and monitors – don’t just leave them on standby.
One monitor left on can cost £10 a year. Across the Trust, that adds up to thousands. Power down, save more.
As more devices go on charge, remember even when they’re not in use, they’re using energy. Unplugging helps us stay efficient all season long.
Tip of the week: Unplug chargers and unused equipment.
A plugged-in phone charger alone can waste £5–£10 per year. Easy win: just unplug.
It’s heating season – but energy isn’t endless. Let’s stay warm without wasting valuable resources.
Tip of the week: Only use heaters and fans when needed – and switch them off after.
A 2kW heater running all day can cost up to £400 a month. Use sparingly, share warmth smartly.
Hot drinks are a must in colder months – but boiling too much water is a common autumn energy-waster.
Tip of the week: Only boil what you need.
Overfilling the kettle every day could waste £150+ a year. One cup, one boil, big savings.
Natural daylight is still around – and using it can help save on lighting and lift the mood.
Tip of the week: Make the most of daylight before reaching for the switch.
A single fluorescent light can cost £20 a year. Natural light is good for both budgets and wellbeing.
Fridge and freezer efficiency matters even more as temperatures outside drop.
Tip of the week: Keep fridge and freezer doors closed.
Leaving doors open can increase running costs by 10–15%. Shut it, save it.
Sometimes energy waste is hiding in plain sight. If something doesn’t look right, let us know.
Tip of the week: Report dripping taps, broken lights, or overheating rooms.
A single dripping tap could waste up to £100 a year. Report issues to: dchst.estateshelpdesk@nhs.net
