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Energy efficiency – a hot topic!
Friday, August 26, 2022
They may not have the WOW factor, but features overlooked by buyers in the past, are likely to top buyers’ wish lists as yet another energy price cap increase was announced today. Recent surveys have shown increased interest in double-glazed windows, roof insulation and modern energy efficient kitchens; now the top three features on a first-time buyer’s wish list. This year, more than ever before, energy efficiency is key to keeping costs down and staying warm in our homes.
If you are looking to buy, consider the Energy Performance Certificate rating and whether steps can be taken to improve this. An energy efficient home could save you hundreds of pounds per year in energy bills. If you are not moving, there are still many ways you can cut or supplement your energy usage and reduce costs, from draught-proofing to solar panel installation. With winter on the way and the cost of living rising, energy efficiency has become a hot topic.
Start with draught proofing, a relatively low-cost way to stop heat escaping from window frames and doors. Consumer group Which? recommends blocking unused chimneys with a special inflatable balloon, and silicone-based filler to close gaps in between floorboards and skirting. These are all low-cost items, which could pay back over the winter.
It doesn’t cost anything to change your habits! Don’t leave gadgets on standby. By unplugging them you could save over £50 a year, according to the Energy Savings Trust. Switching off lights as you leave the room AND swapping to LED lightbulbs could save around £180 per year. Be aware of what appliances cost to run. Whenever possible air-dry laundry outside or on radiators rather than using a tumble drier and choose to use hob, air fryer or microwave over your oven. Showers tend to be more energy efficient than running a bath. Dishwashers are a luxury at £55 for 135 uses, and when boiling your kettle, only boil the amount of water you really need. Turning down your thermostat by just one degree will reduce your heating bills by approximately 10%, whilst washing laundry at 30°C instead of 40°C can save you around £9 a year.
Insulating your loft could save you up to £135 per year according to Which? It needs to be at least 270mm thick for optimum impact. Your loft will be colder as a result so make sure you insulate any water pipes in the loft. Fitting reflector panels behind radiators on uninsulated external walls will keep your room warmer and could save you around £25 a year. You can buy panels from Screwfix for example for approximately £8.
Smart tech products can help to cut energy bills but require upfront costs. You could, for example, operate your heating remotely, adjusting it according to weather conditions while you are away from home. Generating your own power by installing solar panels for example is a long-term option, reducing bills by up to £400 per year although initial investment costs are high. For obvious reasons, solar panels work best on south-facing roofs so you’ll need advice on whether your home is suitable. You could consult Energy Saving Trust. It might take about 14 years to break even on the installation costs, but solar panels could also be a selling point if you are considering moving home.
