Energy Efficiency & How to Achieve It
A typical domestic dwelling in the United Kingdom emits over 5,000kg or 5 metric tonnes of carbon dioxide (CO2) into the atmosphere each year. Many households can, however, employ energy efficiency measures to reduce this figure significantly. Energy efficiency, in turn, reduces fuel costs and can make a home a warmer and healthier place to live.
Some energy efficiency measures – such as turning your central heating thermostat down by just 1°C – can be implemented completely free of charge yet can still reduce your heating costs by up to 10%. Other, more major, measures – such as cavity wall insulation or double glazing do require professional installation but grants and discounts are available. If you do need to foot the bill or part of it yourself you will be compensated more than adequately by your savings on fuel costs.
An old boiler – that is a boiler that is at least 15 years old – is unlikely to be energy efficient, particularly in comparison to a modern boiler. The most efficient boilers of this type are up to 40% better, in terms of energy efficiency, than their predecessors. In addition, if your home is centrally heated energy efficiency can be applied to central heating controls. Timer switches, room and individual radiator thermostats, etc. can be employed to control your heating and hot water and save energy. The most energy efficient products in each category can be identified by the “Energy Saving Recommended” logo.
Great post. There are still a lot of homes here in the States as well that still use old boilers, it’s amazing how much energy they use. Switching to central air/heat and installing timer switches and other energy management controls are a great investment.