4 ways to improve energy efficiency in your home

energy efficiency

One priority goal of every homeowner should be to reduce the amount of energy they use in their home, consequently reducing costs on energy bills. There are a variety of actions you can take to help save yourself money on energy.

Here are our 4 top tips that you can start working towards today:

Keep out draughts

Air leakage and unwanted drafts can result in heat loss and will mean increased energy use to try and heat up your home to the desired temperature. Sealing these air leaks is the fastest and most cost-effective way to reduce energy waste in a property.

If you’re working on a new build and want to make sure that the facilities are airtight from the very beginning, we can provide air tightness testing. This is a method of determining uncontrolled airflow and finding the best solution to prevent it happening.

Air tightness and pressure testing:

  • Reduces potential harmful CO2 emissions
  • Lowers energy and heating bills
  • Adheres to building regulations and guidelines

Energy Performance Certificates

When buying an appliance such as a fridge, freezer or washing machine, making sure it is energy efficient is vital to the overall efficiency of your home.

In addition to this, if you’re a homeowner it is mandatory for you to obtain a Domestic Energy Performance Certificate. This assesses how eco-friendly your building is by checking your insulation, heating and renewable sources. By ensuring your property reaches the minimum E rating, this can save you time and money in the future resolving unwanted issues.

Want to get your EPC? Falcon Energy are here to help, get a tailored quote here.

Water heating

Heating your water is the second largest expense in your home, making it a clear aspect to target for savings. On average, water heating can account for about 18% of your utility bill in the UK. The main ways to reduce your water heating bills is to firstly use less hot water or turn down the thermostat on your water heater. You can also choose to insulate your water heater meaning it wastes less energy, or buy a new more efficient model. This should be looked at and aimed for whenever you need your current model replaced.

Renewable energy

Sustainable and renewable energy is more important now than ever before and it can all start in the home and with individuals making these smart choices. Happily, there are many options available to you. The two most used forms of renewable energy used by homeowners are solar panels and small wind turbines. Solar panels are the most popular and can be used to generate a range of energy, including heat, electricity and indoor and outdoor light.

Wind turbines, the other popular choice, are available to you if you live on at least one acre of land in an area with a large wind source. This combination allows you to generate your own electricity using a small wind turbine, making your property cost less to run as you’re producing your own energy. It’s a great way to take control of your own energy resources.

Another option is the use of an Air Source heat pump. This system transfers heat from the outside to the inside of your home using a refrigeration system involving a compressor and a condenser to absorb heat from one place and release it at another location.

Perhaps the best way of heating water through renewable energy is through solar power. If you have a swimming pool or hot tub, you can use solar power to cut pool heating costs and enjoy your leisure time without worrying about expenses. If you’re looking for renewable energy advice or installation our team are on hand, just get in touch.

 

Posted in Energy, Air Tightness Testing, EPC's, Solar Power.