At the time of writing we have just entered 2014, but I’m sure that we have by no means left the cold weather behind us. Typically the coldest weather in the UK occurs in January and February, although March does have its moments.
This means improving the insulation of your property now will immediately begin to provide you with the combined benefits of lowering your energy bill and keeping you cosy during those cold wintry nights.
Quick and Effective Energy Saving Techniques
The combination of small energy efficiency improvements to a property can rapidly add up to a noticeable cost saving and can even increase the value of the property by up to 38%. A few examples of simple, quick, inexpensive energy saving tips are as follows:
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Make sure the hot water tank is insulated by way of a British Standard jacket which should no less than 75mm thickness
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If you inhabit a property which has wooden floorboards, we recommend you insulate them which can cost around £100
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Make sure ALL hot water delivery pipes in the property are adequately insulated – especially in the loft
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Install low energy light bulbs throughout the property
The aforementioned list offers just a few examples of simple steps which will (accumulatively) add up to substantial savings. The savings you make from these will be long term year on year, far outweighing the small costs you’ll have to pay for each one at the installation stage.
What to Do Next if You Are Considering Insulating Your Home
Perhaps the easiest route to take is to talk to your energy supplier. They have an obligation to help home and business owners reduce their carbon footprint. If you approach your relevant supplier, they will organise an accredited Green Deal Assessor to visit your property to assess its current energy efficiency.
Based on the assessment the independent assessor will produce an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). This certificate will indicate the current level of energy efficiency of the property, as well as the potential energy efficiency rating and environmental impact as a result of all the suggested improvements being carried out.
This assessment attracts a fee to be paid, but this is easily recouped by savings which can be made if you subsequently undertake the recommended improvements. Once the assessment has been undertaken, you will have a much better idea about the changes which are needed.
To reiterate the fact, there is financial assistance available. If you are worried about the cost of insulation there is a new scheme set up by the government known as the Green Deal. You may be able to access the financial assistance element which will help you with the cost of the work. This scheme typically allows you to pay off the remaining balance in instalments through your energy bill.
To find out more about this you will need to speak to a Green Deal provider today and discuss your options with them. Start banishing the winter blues today and create a warm, comfortable living space and benefit from energy cost savings from day one.
Ryan Devvin is a writer, based in the UK, with a keen interest in being green on a budget. His main passion lies in maintaining an Eco-friendly lifestyle in the home.
Picture courtesy of Dan at Free Digital
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