Saving Energy in the Home

What’s the problem?

Each year the average householder in the UK spends around £620 on fuel and power.  That’s about £200 more than they need to. The energy we use to heat our homes can escape through walls, roof, floors, windows and doors if houses are not properly insulated.  As well as being a waste of money it also contributes to climate change by increasing the amount of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere.

Roofs lose 25% of a house’s heat. By installing the recommended depth (250mm/10”) of loft insulation you could save between £20 and £100 a year depending on whether you top up existing insulation or provide it for the first time.

Walls lose 35% of heat. Homes built after 1930 are likely to have cavity walls. Insulating these could save £70-£100 on fuel bills. Professionally installed, the work will come with a guarantee from the Cavity Insulation Guarantee Agency.

Heating and Hot water. With energy efficient products you could save up to £140 a year in heating bills. Turning the thermostat down by 1º could cut your heating bills by up to 10% per year.

Lighting. Low energy bulbs use one fifth the energy of a normal bulb and can last up to 12 times longer. They are coming down in price and the more you install the lower your bills will be!

Appliances. If your current appliance is more than ten years old you could save electricity by upgrading to a new, energy efficient model. An ‘A’ rated fridge freezer, for example, saves £35 per year. Look for the Energy Efficiency Recommended logo. The details of running costs, energy rating, etc., should be visible on the appliance. If not, ask the dealer.

What help is there to install measures?

The good news is there are Grants and discount schemes to help install energy-efficiency measures. This is an investment that will pay dividends for owner-occupiers, landlords and tenants alike!

Where do I go for more information and help?

The Energy Saving Trust offers free, impartial advice about all grants/discount schemes, measures, appliances and low-cost and no-cost tips. Contact Freephone 0800 512 012.

The Private Sector Housing team in your District Council Environmental Health or Housing department (enquiry) will be able to direct you to any of their own Council schemes and to Council-supported grants. These include HEAT Devon, Freephone 0800 093 4050 and the Government-funded grant scheme Warm Front  Freephone, 0800 316 6011. You can contact these schemes direct if you wish.

And when you’ve done all this?

Your home could be warmer and healthier and the quality of your life improved – and you will have done your bit for the environment!