Household bills are crippling homeowners and with experts warning price rises on both gas and electricity bills, it’s not looking like it will get any better. However, through making some lifestyle changes and making sure your house is energy efficient, homeowners will be able to combat rising costs and even save some money.
» Improve your windows
Windows are a key area where homes can experience heat loss. Good, energy efficient windows will keep the warmth in your home and reduce your energy bills. Triple glazing is now available alongside double glazing, so instead of two sheets of glass with a gap between them, there’s three.
» Roof insulation
As heat rises, an uninsulated roof can mean up to a quarter of your home’s heat can escape through the roof. Insulating your loft, attic or roof using mineral wool insulation can prevent heat leakage and reduce your heating bills.
» Cavity wall insulation
Cavity wall insulation is an important and necessary upgrade to improve the thermal performance of your home. The process fills the air space between the inner and outer wall with high-performing material to stop heat transfer. Especially in the winter, warm air will travel through the walls and escape outside, equating to around a third of all heat loss in uninsulated houses.
» Change your light bulbs
A simple change of light bulbs can be an effective way of reducing your household’s electricity bill. Changing from traditional filament bulbs to more energy efficient LEDs or compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) can give you the same amount of light at a reduced cost.
» Invest in an efficient door
On average a home loses 10% of its heat through the windows and doors, meaning your barricade from all the elements outside may not be as strong as you would hope. One remedy would be to invest in a composite door that boasts good thermal and security values. Made with a waterproof glass reinforced plastic (GRP) skin and fitted with multi-point shootbolt and hook bolt locks, composite doors are not only secure but draught and water proof. Whatever tough weather comes, composite doors will keep the cold air, wind and rain out and will stop your warm air inside from escaping.
