With utility prices seemingly rising all the time, ensuring your home is energy efficient has become a crucial consideration for millions of people across the UK. There are a few ways to keep your home warm, some being more expensive and difficult to carry out than others however.
For those with the motivation and time on their hands to improve the insulation properties of their home, this guide will look at five simple ways to implement certain changes to both keep you warm throughout the winter season and save money on bills at the same time.
Trap Heat
Changes to the home can be made at a basic level. Installing double or triple-glazing has its advantages for preserving heat whilst bespoke insulated curtains also help with preserving heat. Staying vigilant in regards to shutting doors and windows is another simple way of keeping the cold drafts out of the home. Quite obviously, paying for heating which is escaping out of open spaces is a waste of money and easily avoided. Don’t forget to cover letterboxes, keyholes and unused fireplaces also if applicable.
More: http://www.wikihow.com/Reduce-Your-Electric-Bill-in-Winter
Floors
Floor insulation is not always practical for many people but can be a great boost if possible to install. Underfloor heating is especially luxurious below tiles throughout the kitchen or bathroom. In most cases however, simple checks and refinements can assist with the efficiency of your floors in every room of the home. After all, it is estimated around 15% of heat is lost via poorly installed floorboards. Look for gaps underneath the carpet and seal these with beading or mastic sealant.
More: http://www.energysavingtrust.org.uk/scotland/Insulation/Floor-insulation
Lofts
When we think of insulation we often think of the loft. Heat will rise when it enters your home, and if your building is insufficiently insulated, will escape needlessly out of the roof. The process of safeguarding the loft is relatively easily and can last for up to 40 years, thus saving you potentially hundreds of pounds over time. Rolls of wool insulation are commonly used in most homes, whilst sheet or blown-fibre can also be installed. Whilst it is possible to insulate a loft yourself, it may be preferential to employ a professional tradesman for large or complex jobs.
More: http://www.energysavingtrust.org.uk/scotland/Insulation/Roof-and-loft-insulation
Boiler
If your boiler is more than 15 years old or evidently needs replacing then there is a whole host of options at your disposal when it comes to fitting a new one. Since 2010, all new boilers must be A-rated which provides a much more energy efficient service around the home. Combi boilers are popular in the UK, providing you with both water and heat at an unlimited rate when needed.
More: http://www.energysavingtrust.org.uk/Heating-and-hot-water/Replacing-your-boiler
Stay Attentive
Many people will be unaware their homes are emitting more heat than they should and thus losing money at the same time. Keep on top of open doors and windows and use the thermostat at the most efficient times to increase its productivity. A great way to conduct a thorough test of both cold and hot air leaks in the home is via a thermal leak detector.