Basic Energy Saving Home Improvements

With the costs of energy continuing to rise, it is extremely important to try to conserve as much energy as possible. By following these energy saving tips, you will notice a significant difference in your energy consumption. Firstly, you will be consuming less energy, and secondly, you will be spending less money on electrical bills. These improvements are relatively low cost and can translate to big savings over time.

Insulate your Loft


If you have a ladder, get up on it and have a look into your loft where you should be able to see the insulation. If you cannot see any insulation, then you are probably spending a lot of money on heating costs. This is because the heat is moving up through the rafters and out of the roof. If you do see some insulation, it should be at least 270 milimetres deep. A quick measurement will let you know exactly how deep the insulation is. Any insulation that is installed should have an energy saving logo on the reverse of the package. You can expect to see savings of approximately 100 per annum on your heating costs after the installation of loft insulation.

Insulate your Walls

It is just as important to insulate your walls as it is to insulate your loft. About one third of heat loss from your home will be through your exterior walls if you do not have any insulation in those walls. You will need to determine what type of exterior walls your home has. Most homes built after the 1920s have what is referred to as -cavity walls-. This means that there is an airspace between the exterior wall, the framing and the interior finishing.

It is recommended that you hire a contractor who has the proper equipment to easily complete this job for you. The insulation most often used these days is blown in with a hose and expands once it has been installed, filling up all of the airspaces and gaps. There is no mess associated with this process and the entire job will be completed in less than one day. After you have insulated exterior walls, you should expect to see a savings of about 90 per annum. You will also reduce your carbon dioxide output by 750 kg a year.

Have your windows glazed

Replacing windows can be extremely expensive. Modern windows have double panes and vinyl sashes and they are caulked upon installation. They also do not attract condensation in the same way that older windows do. If it is not in your budget to have windows replaced, then why not look into the cost of having a winder glazier add a sealant coating to your windows? This process can save you a great deal of money. A lot of energy goes right out the window, literally and figuratively. The simple process of glazing can eliminate the energy loss or reduce it substantially. After you have the windows glazed, invest in some caulking and seal up your windows sashes, being careful to eliminate cracks and air spaces.