Windows
It’s easy to overlook your windows if you already have double glazing. However, if your windows were installed some years ago, they may not be quite as energy-efficient as you think. If you’ve noticed condensation starting to appear between the panes, then it’s likely that the seal has gone and it’s time for an upgrade.
Insulation
You may have already insulated your loft space, but did you know that many older houses can also be fitted with floor insulation? But is the cost of floor insulation worth the hassle? This will depend on whether you can feel a draught blowing underneath the floorboards and skirting. If the answer is yes, then this is going to be a good investment for you to consider. It's time to get some insulation and replace that old flooring with something more modern like good quality Tongue And Groove Flooring.
Heating
Changing the way you use your central heating can make a difference. Reducing your energy consumption doesn’t necessarily mean a colder home. However, a few small tweaks could save you around 10% on your bills. Many people simply set a timer for their heating, so it comes on regardless of whether it’s cold enough or they’re even in the house at the time. The general consensus from energy experts is to only use the heating when you really need it and to reduce the temperature on the thermostat by a mere degree or two. If you don’t have a thermostat to control the temperature, this is another improvement you can consider making.
Water
What effect does water have on the efficiency of your home? Every day, you use water in appliances, heating systems, bathrooms, and other places. When you live in a location with hard water, your efficiency suffers. Hard water includes minerals that are left behind in the form of limescale when the water is heated and cooled. Limescale buildup around heating components in appliances and boilers can have a significant influence on their capacity to heat water efficiently, costing you money in additional energy. Just 1.6mm of scale around heating components, for example, can result in a 12% loss in efficiency. To avoid this and maintain their performance, install a non-electric water softener, which will remove the water's minerals and protect your property from the harm limescale may cause.
I hope these tips have given you a few extra ways to keep your home warm and more energy-efficient, especially as the cooler weather approaches.
Changing the way you use your central heating can make a difference. Reducing your energy consumption doesn’t necessarily mean a colder home. However, a few small tweaks could save you around 10% on your bills. Many people simply set a timer for their heating, so it comes on regardless of whether it’s cold enough or they’re even in the house at the time. The general consensus from energy experts is to only use the heating when you really need it and to reduce the temperature on the thermostat by a mere degree or two. If you don’t have a thermostat to control the temperature, this is another improvement you can consider making.
Water
What effect does water have on the efficiency of your home? Every day, you use water in appliances, heating systems, bathrooms, and other places. When you live in a location with hard water, your efficiency suffers. Hard water includes minerals that are left behind in the form of limescale when the water is heated and cooled. Limescale buildup around heating components in appliances and boilers can have a significant influence on their capacity to heat water efficiently, costing you money in additional energy. Just 1.6mm of scale around heating components, for example, can result in a 12% loss in efficiency. To avoid this and maintain their performance, install a non-electric water softener, which will remove the water's minerals and protect your property from the harm limescale may cause.
Lighting
Making the switch to energy-efficient light bulbs is an easy win and one you have probably already encountered. But it is worth checking your bulbs. The older style energy-saving bulbs are still being used in many homes, and although they will be doing a better job than the incandescent style bulbs, technology has moved along tremendously. LED bulbs are now the most energy-efficient type on the market and will last you a long time.
Making the switch to energy-efficient light bulbs is an easy win and one you have probably already encountered. But it is worth checking your bulbs. The older style energy-saving bulbs are still being used in many homes, and although they will be doing a better job than the incandescent style bulbs, technology has moved along tremendously. LED bulbs are now the most energy-efficient type on the market and will last you a long time.
I hope these tips have given you a few extra ways to keep your home warm and more energy-efficient, especially as the cooler weather approaches.
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