How to make your home more energy efficient
More than three quarters of carbon dioxide emissions are due to transport, industry and households. We can all do “our bit” by making our homes as energy efficient as possible. Not only will you help to reduce the amount of CO2 released, but you will also save money on your energy bills. It’s not difficult to start saving.
Improve your insulation
Loft spaces and walls are responsible for over 40% of heat loss in the average home. Lofts should be insulated to a minimum depth of 150mm (6 inches). Remember to wear protective clothing if you do it yourself. When insulating, leave sufficient gaps around the eaves to avoid condensation. Do not insulate under water tanks that may freeze and ensure all pipe work and the loft hatch are insulated. This will cost around £300 but will save around £60-£70 a year.
Change light bulbs
By buying an energy efficient light bulb rather than the ordinary alternatives you can cut energy wastage by over 75 per cent. Energy saving bulbs cost a bit more than ordinary light bulbs but they last 12 times longer could save up to £9 on your annual electricity bill, or £100 over the bulb's lifetime.
Turn off instead of on standby
Turn off any appliances that go to standby. If the little red light is on it can cost you up to £30 per year. Switching off unnecessary lights and only boiling as much water as you need in a kettle will also save you money.
Turn down the temperature and block draughts
Reduce the temperature of your central heating. Just turning down the temperature by one degree could save you up to 10% on your heating bill. Draughty windows and doors can usually be fixed with minimal DIY skills. Don’t block any ventilation grills! This can save £10-£20 a year.
Think alternative energy
The government is keen to see households embrace new technology and there are grants available to help householders with installation costs. Solar panels can be fitted to your roof and generate electricity for your home. Costs are falling, so if your property needs reroofing then it could be worth considering.
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