Make great savings

Friday, 07 January 2011 03:28

With winter almost upon us, try these simple tips to make your home more energy efficient and put some cash back in your pocket or savings account.

Now is a great time to take steps to make your home as energy efficient as possible. 'Just about every home in the UK, with the exception of new builds, could benefit from energy-efficiency measures,' says Rob Bell, 'Energy Doctor' for the Energy Saving Trust.

Insulating cavity walls

This is one of the most effective energy-saving improvements you can make and government grants are available via energy suppliers to reduce the insulating costs or you may consider taking out a loan.

Potential saving: £115 a year on energy bills.

Top up lofts

Many houses lose heat through the roof due to inadequate insulation. The ideal thickness is 270mm - avoid filling your loft completely though, as you need space for ventilation to avoid condensation.

Potential saving: £150 a year if you start with no insulation.

Time for a new boiler?

Old boilers are likely to be inefficient, resulting in higher than necessary energy bills. If yours is more than 15 years old, consider trading it in.

Potential saving: A new A-rated boiler with a full set of heating controls can cut heating bills by up to 25%.

Check your heating

Remember to bleed radiators to get rid of air pockets and check that your thermostat is working properly.

Double glazing

Investing in double glazing will keep your home warmer, while also reducing noise from outside.

Potential saving: Around £135 a year on your heating bills.

(First published on Money Matters Thu, 14 Oct 2010)

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