Making your home energy efficient can reduce carbon emissions as well as saving you money on household bills so we've put together some tips on how you can save energy within your home:
1. Loft insulation
With approximately 25% of heat in your home escaping through the roof it makes sense to get your loft insulated to prevent this loss of heat. Not only does an insulated loft keep your home warm in the winter it also keeps your house cooler in the summer. A loft is quite straight forward to insulate as long as it is easily accessible and doesn't contain any damp. You can still apply for a loft insulation grant but you need to be quick as this scheme will be stopping in 2012.
2. Draught-proofing windows
Most draughts in the home arise from unwanted gaps in windows that lets warm air escape and welcomes cold air in. Stopping these window draughts is one of the cheapest and easiest ways to save energy. You can buy draught proofing strips that create a seal around the window frame to stop any draughts. There are two types of strips, self-adhesive foam strips which are the cheapest option or metal or plastic strips with brushes attached, these are the more expensive option but they are more durable and will last longer.
3. Cavity wall insulation
If your home was built after 1920 it's more than likely that there is a gap between its external walls. In order to make your home more energy efficient this gap will need to be filled to stop heat from escaping. You will need to call in a professional to insulate your walls; all they will do is drill small holes in the outside walls of your house and fill the cavity with insulation. You may even be eligible for a grant for cavity wall insulation, however these grants are also coming to an end in 2012.
All these are great ways to make your home more energy efficient and will help you save money on household bills. However, if you live in a listed building its best to check with a conservation officer before making any changes to find out what you can and can't do. Watch out for further tips coming soon!