Spring has sprung, the daffodils are out, and the Easter break is just around the corner. For many of us it’s a chance to step away for the day-to-day, enjoy a well-earned rest, and perhaps indulge in a little too much chocolate.
But whether you’re hopping off for a short getaway, visiting family, or simply taking a few days to unwind, there’s one small, but often overlooked, thing to consider before you lock your front door: your LPG usage at home.
It’s easy to forget that energy doesn’t stop being used just because you’re not there. Heating systems left running and appliances on standby can quietly chip away at your LPG supply and eat into your energy budget, meaning you return home from your break to wasted fuel.
The good news is that with a little preparation, you can avoid all that. A few simple steps before you leave can help save money, reduce waste, and give you peace of mind so you can enjoy your holiday, and the post-holiday glow, without any unwanted surprises.
Why it matters
With ongoing uncertainty in global energy markets, including the impact of geographical events such as the crisis in the Middle East, fuel prices remain a key concern for households and businesses alike. At Northern Energy, we understand just how important it is to stay in control of your energy usage, not only to manage costs, but also to reduce unnecessary consumption and environmental impact.
Even when you’re away from home, it’s easy to forget that appliances on standby or heating systems left running can quietly use LPG, slowly eating into your supply. Over a long weekend, or a short Easter break, those small, unnoticed uses can quickly add up, leading to higher bills and energy wastage. Taking a proactive approach before you leave allows you to stay one step ahead. By making a few straightforward adjustments, you can protect your supply, avoid waste, save money, cut down emissions, and return to a home that’s efficient, safe, and ready for you.
Check your appliances
Before heading off for your Easter break, or any time away, it’s worth taking a few minutes to check that all non-essential appliances are switched off. This simple step can make a noticeable difference to your overall energy usage and gives you one less thing to worry about while you’re away.
Start with your LPG-fuelled appliances. Gas cookers or ovens, patio heaters, and hot water systems are all common culprits when it comes to unnecessary energy use. If they don’t need to be running while the house is empty, switch them off.
It’s also important not to overlook your electrical appliances. Many devices continue to draw power even when they’re not actively in use. According to the Energy Savings Trust, most electrical items can be safely turned off at the plug without affecting their settings or programming. This includes items like TV’s, microwaves and kitchen appliances.
There are a few exceptions such as satellite boxes or digital recorders. You may want to leave these plugged in if you’re planning to record your favourite programmes while you’re away. But beyond those, switching things off at the mains is a quick and effective way to cut down on unnecessary energy use.
Adjust your heating
There’s no need to heat an empty house while you’re enjoying your Easter break. However, completely switching off your heating isn’t always the best option either. It’s about finding the right balance for the time of year and your system.
During milder spring weather, simply lowering the thermostat is often enough to maintain a safe and efficient temperature in your home. This prevents unnecessary energy use while ensuring your property doesn’t become damp or uncomfortable.
Many modern LPG heating systems also include a ‘holiday’ or ‘low use’ setting. These modes are specifically designed for periods when you’re away, reducing energy consumption while still maintaining essential functions such as frost protection. This can be particularly useful if there’s an unexpected cold snap while you’re gone.
If you’re unsure what settings are best for your LPG system, it’s always a good idea to check your appliance manual or speak to a Gas Safe registered engineer. A little guidance can go a long way in helping to get the most out of your heating system.
By making a few simple adjustments, you can significantly reduce your LPG usage without compromising the safety or condition of your home. It’s a small change that delivers real savings and ensures you home is ready to welcome you back comfortably.
Keep an eye on your supply
Another important consideration before heading away is your LPG supply level. The last thing you want is to return home to an empty tank, especially if temperatures drop or you need heating and hot water straight away.
If you manage your supply manually, it’s worth checking your LPG tank levels in advance and arranging a delivery if needed. Planning ahead helps avoid disruption and ensures everything is take care of before you leave.
Alternatively, services such as the Northern Energy automatic refilling service can take this responsibility off your plate entirely. BY monitoring your usage and scheduling your deliveries for you, it ensures your tank is always kept topped up, whether you’re at home or away.
Enjoy your break
Setting up your system for low or holiday use isn’t just about saving money, it’s about giving yourself complete peace of mind. Knowing that your LPG usage is under control means you can fully relax and enjoy your time away.
When combined with regular maintenance from a Gas Safe registered engineer, to keep your LPG boiler safe and running at its most efficient, and a reliable supply from Northern Energy, it all adds up to a smoother, stress-free experience. No unexpected issues, no wasted energy, and no last-minute scramble to refill your LPG storage tank.
So, before you head off this Easter, take a few moments to prepare your home, and when you return, it will be just as you left it. Efficient, comfortable, and ready for you.
If you'd like to discuss our automatic refilling service, or are thinking about switching to Northern Energy, call us on 01423 772 789.