How to make your home more efficient: tips for homeowners

As a homeowner in the UK, it's important to take steps to reduce your property's energy consumption. Not only does this help to reduce your carbon footprint, but it can also lower your energy bills and increase your home's value. Statistics from Money Super Market found that increasing your home’s EPC rating to an A could increase the value of your property by 14%[1].

Not only this but having a high EPC is a hot topic for buy-to-let landlords currently. The Government has set a deadline of 2025 for newly rented properties and 2028 for all other properties to get to a minimum EPC rating of C, and with many buy-to-let properties being older houses this could become quite an expensive task for many landlords.

We explore some simple yet effective ways to make your home more energy efficient that aren’t going to cost you the earth but could add some value to your property.

Upgrade Your Insulation

One of the most effective ways to reduce energy consumption in your home is to ensure it is well-insulated. In the UK, homes lose a significant amount of heat through their roofs, walls and windows. By upgrading your insulation, you can keep your home warmer in winter and cooler in summer, without relying as much on your heating and cooling systems.

There are several types of insulation available, including cavity wall insulation, loft insulation, and floor insulation. You can also consider installing double-glazed windows or adding secondary glazing to existing windows to improve their energy efficiency.

Install Energy-Efficient Appliances

Another way to reduce energy consumption in your home is to upgrade your appliances to more energy-efficient models. Look for appliances with an A++ or higher rating, which means they use less energy to operate. This can include your fridge/freezer, washing machine, dishwasher, and even your light bulbs.

You can also invest in smart home technology that helps you monitor and control your energy consumption. For example, you can use a smart thermostat to adjust your heating based on your schedule and occupancy, or a smart meter to track your energy usage in real-time.

Reduce Water Consumption

Finally, reducing your water consumption can also help to make your home more energy-efficient. This is because heating water requires a significant amount of energy, and reducing your water usage can help to lower your energy bills.

There are several ways to reduce water consumption in your home, such as fixing any leaks, installing low-flow showerheads and faucets, and using a dishwasher instead of washing dishes by hand. You can also consider collecting rainwater to use for watering plants or washing your car.

By implementing these tips, you can make your home more energy-efficient and reduce your property's carbon footprint. Not only will this benefit the environment, but it can also save you money on your energy bills over time and also increase your properties value if and when you come to sell. Remember, making your home more energy-efficient doesn't have to be expensive or complicated - small changes can make a big difference in the long run.

Made some improvements to your home recently and are curious to know its new value? Speak to one of our expert valuers today to find out more on 01273 221100

[1] https://www.moneysupermarket.com/gas-and-electricity/value-of-efficiency/