Improve the energy efficiency of your property with these simple steps and winter-proof your property and reduce your bills for years to come.
As the temperatures drop and the urge to turn on the heating increases, we are all looking for ways to reduce our energy bills and keep our homes warmer for longer.
Here are six ways you can keep your property warmer, safer, and more efficient this winter:
1 – Check width of Loft Insulation
Ensure your loft is insulated with a width between 250mm-270mm. When fitted properly, loft insulation can last up to 40 years.
Installation typically costs between £285-£395. The energy saved will mean you can heat your home for longer, for less.
2 – Bleed Radiators
When the top of a radiator is cold and the bottom is hot, it needs bleeding. Bleeding your radiators will keep them running efficiently.
Bleeding radiators are a simple fix and can be carried out by anyone.
3 – Boiler Pressure
Boilers work best around 1.5 bar. Boiler pressure can be monitored using the gauge at the front of the boiler.
It is normal for the pressure to fluctuate as the boiler heats up and cools down. If there is an issue with the boiler, be sure to check this gauge before calling for a repair.
4 – Lag Pipes
Lagging pipes simply refers to wrapping pipes in insulation, this prevents them from freezing and keeps water hotter for longer. This means you will spend less time waiting for the water to heat up, as well as there being less heat wasted due to uninsulated pipes.
Insulated tubing costs little and can be fitted by yourself. Insulating pipes which carry water from the boiler to taps and showers are the best to insulate, as well as those which carry water outside and are susceptible to freezing.
5 – Keep Draughts Out
A typical home loses around 40% of its heat through the windows and doors, keep draughty windows and doors sealed using draught excluders, any gaps can be sealed with caulk to prevent air from coming in.
Draught excluders are a cheap and effective way of keeping cold air out and keeping warm air in, draughts around a window can lead to damp, so it is best to act as soon as possible whenever a draught is found.
6 – Clear Gutter
It is ideal to clear out gutters before the temperatures drop below zero, or before prolonged rainfall if possible. High winds and rain can lead to drainage issues and other water-related issues such as leaks and seeping damp.
Depending on the exterior of your property, clearing gutters may not be possible without specialist equipment. So, if you are not confident with carrying out cleaning yourself, it may be better to contact a professional.
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