Property-Energysaving tips

Energy saving tips for the kitchen

30% of household energy consumed in the kitchen

Let's mitigate rising bills! Energy bills are set to continue to rise, and with nearly 30% of household energy consumption being used in the kitchen (according to Energy Saving Trust - 13.8% of electricity for cooking, 16.8% for freezing/cooling food), being energy efficient in the kitchen should help cut down energy bills. Tips on being efficient in the Kitchen Use the microwave: Cooking by heating water molecules inside food, from inside outwards, the heat generated by microwave is not wasted in heating the air surrounding the food. Microwaves can be used to reheat, defrost and cook meals. Microwave recipes such as mac and cheese, leek and salmon in a parcel, risotto primavera and banana muffins can be found with Google. You can also try partcooking potatoes or butternut squash for 6-10 minutes before roasting. Microwaves can also steam-cook. It takes 4-5 minutes to cook softer/ 1 moist vegetables and 6-8 minutes for firmer ones. Use the kettle: A kettle heats water faster than the stove. When boiling water in a sauce-pan, heat from the hob is absorbed by the surrounding air. Use a slow cooker: Slow cookers are insulated, and the lid stays on during cooking. An average slow cooker uses 1.3 kWh per meal. They cook everything in one pot so there are less items to wash. The slow and longer process also makes it perfect to create meals from cheaper cuts of meat. Use less water: Only use as much water as you need (just enough to cover the food). Boiling extra water takes more time as well as energy. Cover pots and pans: The water will boil faster and use less energy to heat food. Turn off the heat a few minutes before it is fully cooked – particularly if you have an electric hob, as they take time to cool down and will continue to cook. Defrost your fridge and freezer: The energy efficiency of both is reduced if there is a build-up of ice or frost. Leave a 10cm gap behind your fridge so the heat can flow away easier. For more info: www.sustainableamersham.org

The right approach to moving

Henry Adams proud of Feefo customer service Platinum Award

Buying or selling a property is said to be among the most stressful things to cope with. C h a i n s , s ea r c h es t h a t uncover restrictive covenants, gazumping can all block even the most straightforward deal. Utilising the services of a professional and knowledgeable estate agent can go a long way towards alleviating some of the pitfalls. Gareth Overton (pictured above), Head of Sales at Henry Adams Estate Agency, has 20 years experience in residential sales and spoke to Sussex Local about their approach. Effective marketing he said, is a key priority in helping clients to find their ideal property or sell to their best advantage. He explained that the highly trained team will progress a sale or purchase from the start to exchange and completion which is often the trickiest part but vital for a successful outcome. Henry Adams was founded in 1990 by the late Henry Adams, in partnership with Simon Lush who is still a consultant with them today. As well as property sales and lettings, Gareth told us that the company provides a range of other services including domestic and commercial property valuations, development land agency, rural and farming consultancy and advice on the management of equestrian property. Gareth is immensely proud of his team - “they are simply great!” and he is confident that consistent dedication to customer service is the key to continued success in the future. “We continue to streamline our processes behind the scenes so that we can focus on what matters most to our customers. Everything we invest in is designed to help our clients or our teams, as you can see from all our reviews on Feefo where we’ve received the Platinum Award for consistent excellence in customer service.” Henry Adams Estate Agency & Chartered Surveyors. Offices across the county www.henryadams.co.uk

Established for more than 25 years

Green Lane (off the Bognor Road) Merston, Chichester, West Sussex PO20 1EH Call us today to transform your home 01243 96 77 39