As the temperature is staring to drop and there is an autumn chill in the air, now is the best time to start thinking about how you can save energy and cut down your bills. Little things such as boiling pans with lids on them and washing at 30 have an impact, but for a noticeable difference you should look into the main structural features of your property.
1. Insulate Your Loft
If your home is uninsulated, you can lose up to 25% of your heat through the roof, which over the years can add up to a hefty sum of money. However, by insulating your roof, Energy Saving Trust has estimated that you can save up to £240 a year. Even if you think your roof is insulated, it’s always worth double checking as the recommended thickness is 270mm, which many older properties don’t measure up to.
2. Invest in Cavity Wall Insulation
Rooves aren’t the only place heat escapes through; up to a third of internal air escapes through the walls, burning a hole in your pocket when it comes to your gas and/or electricity bills. If your property was built after 1990, it’s more than likely to already have cavity wall insulation. If it’s older than this, then it’s something worth looking into, especially as there are a variety of grants that can help cover the initial cost.
3. Install Energy Efficient Windows
Windows aren’t just an influencing factor for increasing kerb appeal, as they can have an impact on how much you spend each month on your energy bills. Anything from 10% to 25% of heat is lost because of poorly-insulating windows, but with a few changes, you can begin to save money rather than spend. At Timber Windows, all our windows are double glazed and sealed, to offer maximum protection from unwelcome draughts, and ensures no heat seeps out. Replacing windows is an expensive upfront cost, but you’ll soon be reaping in the benefits. Not only can it save you up to £160 per year*, but will reduce condensation and give you some peace and quiet from the outside world.
4. Stop the Draughts
Doors have a part to play when looking into saving energy, as they are a known source for inviting in draughts, especially through letterboxes and keyholes. The first way to stop wintery winds sweeping into your home is ensure your exterior doors are weatherproof. All our Timber Doors are finished with patented dual capillary draught seals for ultimate insulation. This reduces heat loss, and when combined with choosing the correct hardware such as a keyhole with cover, you can save up to £35 a year.*
For more information on how Timber Windows can help you to save energy in your home, get in contact with one of our experts.
*Figures have been taken from Energy Saving Trust, and are correct as of October 2016.
