Households across the UK are being urged to follow a four minute shower rule this winter to cut down their energy bills.
Taking a shower is a part of most households’ daily routine, with some people even opting to have two showers per day, and while it may not seem like much, it can rack up your energy costs. Household bills are typically under more pressure at this time of the year, thanks to heating costs, and after energy regulator Ofgem increased its price cap by 2% in October, now is a good time to save money where you can.
One easy way to do this is simply to reduce your shower time to four minutes per day, as this can save a typical household in England, Scotland and Wales around £60 on average per year on their energy bills.
The tip has been shared by Octopus Energy, which serves more than seven million UK households, as part of its energy saving tips for the winter period.
The major energy supplier said: “Reduce your shower time. You could save: £60. Keeping your shower time to just 4 minutes could save a typical household £60 a year!”
Not only does a shorter shower reduce your energy bills, it can also help to save around 17,000 litres of water annually, according to the Energy Saving Trust, so you can make a positive impact on the environment simply by having a quick wash.
And if you like having a relaxing soak in the tub, it’s also worth giving up your bubble bath at least once a week for a shower instead as it’s a really easy way to save you money.
The Energy Saving Trust says opting for a four minute shower once a week instead of a bath can give the typical UK household £10 per year back and save 4,000 litres of water annually.
Of course, if giving up long showers isn’t for you then you could opt to install a water-saving shower head instead to cut down your energy costs.
You can do this by visiting the Save Water Save Money website and entering your postcode to check which free items, like the shower heads, your water company is offering, but the availability depends on where you live and stock levels. If you are eligible, you can order the shower head directly through the website and have it delivered to your home.
Turning the shower off while using shampoo, soap or shower gel and then switching it back on to rinse is another free and easy way to save on both energy and water. You’ll also heat less water by doing this which helps reduce your energy costs, as well as your water usage.
And for those brave enough, you could also opt to take a cold shower as this will reduce your energy usage and time spent in the shower – it’s also said to have physical and mental health benefits too.