At this time of year, we are all bracing ourselves for some expensive energy bills. If you’re looking for ways to boost your energy rating, and save money, this article will help!
As the weather gets colder and wetter and the days are shorter and darker, the temptation is always there to turn on the heating a little earlier, to run that bath for a little longer, and to keep the kettle boiling throughout the day and into the evening.
But improving on how energy efficient our homes are isn’t just about saving those pennies, it’s also about taking responsibility for our individual impact on the environment.
How To Boost Your Energy Rating
We should all be taking steps towards reducing our carbon footprint, and what better place to start than with our homes?
Here are a few ideas to help you boost your energy rating.
When Was The Last Time You Got A New Boiler?
When we move into a new home, the first questions we ask about the boiler are: does it work, and is it safe?
Once they are answered satisfactorily, many of us just move on to the next problem, but over time your boiler will start to become less and less efficient, requiring more and more energy to provide the same service.
While buying a new boiler can be quite expensive, you could also be losing a huge amount of money by not doing so, and a more energy-efficient one will reduce your emissions.
Have You Thought About Your Windows?
We all know that sub-par windows are one of the biggest culprits when it comes to energy loss in your home.
It goes without saying that your house or flat should have double glazing if you want to make sure that you’re keeping the warmth in, and that thick curtains or blinds can make a huge difference too.
However, something that you may not have considered is the windows themselves.
Flush casement windows have an excellent energy rating as they offer great thermal retention, and they are wonderfully elegant to boot.
These made to measure windows from Hinson are durable, high performance and come in a range of styles to suit you.
Insulated Well To Boost Your Energy Rating
Home insulation may not have been on the top of your checklist when you bought your property, but if you are looking for ways to improve your home’s energy efficiency, then it certainly should be.
Homes with attics or lofts lose a huge amount of heat if they are not properly insulated, and you should consider installing insulation in these spaces with approval from building regulators.
If your property is older, then you may have noticed that you are losing heat from your walls.
Now, installing solid wall insulation or cavity wall insulation is a bigger project and you will need permission, but this is a renovation that will yield tremendous dividends in the future.
You should also look for curled shingles or discolored spots, which are both signs that your roof is beginning to deteriorate. If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to contact a roofing specialist immediately.
Go Solar!
A few years ago, it would be pretty rare to see a home with solar panels on the roof.
These days, residential solar panel installation can be seen everywhere.
They are not cheap to install but the savings on your bills will be noticeable and there are incentives to sell on excess energy.
Last Updated on June 22, 2023 by Lucy Clarke