We are all that much more aware of our environmental impact these days, particularly in recent weeks in the wake of Rishi Sunak’s green U-turn. We can all play our part and the most practical way to make a difference is to ensure your home is as energy efficient as possible. It’s not just about making the world a cleaner and greener place either; it’s about saving money!
Based on data from the Office for National Statistics, the median energy efficiency score for homes in England and Wales in 2022 was equivalent to band D, which is OK but there’s certainly room for improvement. With that in mind, today we’ll be taking you through some practical tips to make your home more efficient, save money and save the planet (kind of).
Home Insulation
Insulation is one of the cornerstones of energy-efficiency, so much so that there’s been a fair amount of media coverage in recent weeks concerning the government’s £1billion scheme. There’s a good reason for this; in the UK, where the weather can be pretty chilly for a good part of the year (to say the least), proper insulation can make a world of difference.
Materials Matter: Popular insulation materials include fibreglass, cellulose, and foam and it’s vital to choose the right material for different parts of your home to maximise efficiency. You should also take into account the relative cost of each material before pulling the trigger.
Seal Those Drafts: Cold drafts can quickly negate the benefits of central heating so ensure that all areas like the loft, windows, and doors are sealed properly.
Upgrade Windows and Doors: Double or triple-glazed windows and well-insulated doors can significantly reduce heat loss. Of course, double glazing has been the standard for years now but if your home is a little on the older side, you might want to get them checked out.
Energy-Efficient Appliances and Lighting
For many of us, living in a world without appliances would be frankly ludicrous so we’re not telling you to throw all your gadgets away. However, when shopping around for new gizmos, there are a few things you might want to consider if you’re trying to be as energy efficient as possible.
Energy Ratings: Look for the energy ratings on all appliances. The higher the rating, the more efficient the appliance and the cheaper it will be to run.
LED Lighting: Replace traditional bulbs with LEDs, wherever possible. They consume less power and last much longer. They also come in a range of colours so if you’re trying to make a statement with your home décor you’ve just given yourself a major opportunity.
Smart Home Technology: Consider installing smart thermostats and energy monitors. These devices can help you track and reduce energy consumption and even control your thermostat remotely using a smartphone app. If you have the money to spare, meanwhile, upgrading to energy-efficient combi boilers can offer improved heating efficiency while still delivering the high power and speed associated with gas boilers.
