As energy support schemes end and households face higher bills as a result, energy experts at Loop reveal that a third of households are missing out on easy energy savings, having not swapped their bulbs to energy – and cost – saving LEDs. This means households are missing out on savings that could amount to £150 million per year on electricity bills across the UK.
The switch from old inefficient halogen lightbulbs to LED lightbulbs could save billpayers £60 per year if they switched 10 50w halogen spots in their homes and £120 if they switched 20. Despite the promise of warmer weather and lighter days, many households are still desperate to reduce their energy use as they adapt to the end of Government support, and 96% agree that switching to LED lightbulbs could save them money.
But despite this awareness, free smart meter app Loop reveals many billpayers are not making the simple switch to LEDS, with 32% risking higher bills by waiting for their old bulbs to run out before they swap their bulbs. A third (30%) of Brits confess to LED confusion, admitting they don’t know which LED to choose, where to buy from or what difference they make.
Loop also reports confusion about the impact of lighting on electricity bills - two thirds of Brits don’t know how much of their electricity bill goes on lighting. According to Loop’s research, only a third (34%) were aware that lighting makes up 11% of average household electricity consumption. Nearly half (43%) underestimated the impact of lighting on their energy bills, believing it incorrectly accounts for just 5% of their electricity consumption. Those who had made the swap saw significant savings, with a quarter (26%) of Loop users reporting savings of more than £50 while swapping to LEDs.
Loop’s data also reveals that 42% of savings savvy Brits have switched some of their lightbulbs to smart lightbulbs. This type of LED bulb allows users to control their lighting via smart technology and some have the added benefit of adding colour or synching to music.
The Energy Doctor, Dr Steve Buckley who is Head of Data Science at Loop, is encouraging households to make the most of this swift and simple hack that could make a real difference to energy usage and bills. Dr Steve Buckley, says: “With lighting making up 11% of the average household electricity bill, switching to energy-saving LED light bulbs is a simple fix to make some real savings on electricity bills.
“In the past, some people have dismissed LED lights for being overly expensive or not powerful enough, but most now offer better quality than traditional bulbs and are getting cheaper all the time. Part of the appeal of LEDs is that they’re long-lasting. Some options claim a lifespan of as much as 25 – 30 years.
“Already, 63% of Loop users have reported savings from making the switch to LED lightbulbs and we expect this to increase as inefficient halogen light bulbs are phased out.
Subscribe here for the latest news where you live
“LED lightbulbs are now widely available as companies are no longer allowed to manufacture halogen lightbulbs. This means that there is a huge range available, which is positive news but it can be confusing. Many manufacturers have guides to help you select the right type of bulb and if you ask in DIY stores, they should be able to give you advice on the right type of bulb, lumen value and colour. We’ve also shared guidance for those looking to find out more about LEDs and the difference they can make in your home.
“We’d really urge households not to wait to make the swap to LEDs. Any cost incurred up front to change your bulbs will undoubtedly be made back in savings on your electricity bills throughout the year, not to mention the savings that come with opting for a more sustainable option.
“If you’re anxious about electricity costs, we would stress that the best way to reduce your bill is to understand how you are using energy at home and take steps to reduce it. That’s where a free energy-saving app for your smart meter, like Loop, can help. Simply seeing how much energy you’re using and what it’s costing you can help you see where to make reductions. On average, Loop users cut their electricity bill by 16% and their gas by 10%.”
