How to save money with one simple switch

With energy prices and the cost of living set to rise significantly from April, many of us will be looking for ways we can save money and reduce our annual energy bills.

As this is also a time when the weather will be getting warmer, some people will also be looking to update their outdoor spaces in time for the summer without breaking the bank too.

One simple way to reduce annual spending through your energy bills is by switching to LED bulbs. LEDs offer an energy-efficient, money-saving alternative to traditional lighting solutions, and the low operating temperatures of the bulbs mean your outside decor isn’t at risk from heat damage.

Not only do they require a lot less electricity to run, they are more sustainable. In addition, they also have an extended lifespan of around 50,000 hours – this is 50 times more than a standard incandescent bulb. As a result of this, a bulb with around 10 hours of use per day can cost less than £3 a year. With this extended lifespan, the bulbs won’t need to be replaced as quickly as traditional bulbs, saving money in the long term.

For those looking to reduce their carbon footprint, LED lights use up to 90% less energy than standard incandescent bulbs, saving money on annual electricity bills at a time when we really need the extra money, and reducing annual carbon dioxide emissions by around 5kg per bulb.

To put this into context, the average home could see a 63kg annual reduction in carbon emissions simply by switching to LED lights.

Recent research by lighting supplier Ultra LEDs revealed that the average household spent £300 on garden renovations this past year * . Reasons for making changes were varied, but more than half of respondents said they wanted their gardens to be a relaxing haven, while a third stated that entertaining guests was the main reason for the update.

However, this year, people will be looking at areas where they can save money rather than spend it. So how do you update your outdoor space while saving money? Festoon lights provide flexible and adaptable lighting for every type of outdoor space and by using LED bulbs, you’ll save both energy and money.

Ultra LEDs’ Pro Series Heavy Duty Festoon String Kit has been designed specifically for long term outdoor installations in commercial premises such as retail spaces, pub, bar and restaurant gardens and outdoor events. They can also be used for anyone looking to spruce up their garden or balcony at home too, and come in a variety of lengths with five, 10 and 20 metres available.

Featuring a robust rubber outer casing on both the cable and bulb sockets, as well as being IP65 rated, you won’t need to worry about the great British weather either.

Matthew Shaw, Head of Sales at Ultra LEDs comments: “We’ve seen a lot of customers looking for outdoor lights that are easy to install, which has meant our lighting kits have been very popular. Our bestseller has definitely been festoon lights.

“Not only will the LED bulbs help save customers money and energy, the flexibility, reliability and our large range of festoon kits helps make them suitable for all types of outdoor spaces and budgets. We have bulbs in lots of different colours as well as classic white, and because the bulbs and strings can be bought individually as well as in pre-selected kits, customers can easily customise their display.”

Ultra LEDs, ultraleds.co.uk

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