As a homeowner, managing your energy expenses not only benefits your budget but also makes your property more attractive to potential buyers.
Here are some of our top tips to help you lower your energy bills and enhance your home’s energy efficiency.
Unplug unused devices
Did you know that “phantom electricity” (the energy used by devices when they are off but still plugged in) can take up nearly 25% of your energy bill? To cut costs, make it a habit to unplug appliances and gadgets when you’re not using them or before you leave home.
Draught-proof your home
Older properties often suffer from heat loss due to draughts around windows, doors, and floors. While professional draught-proofing is a wise investment, you can also tackle this as a DIY project with easy solutions like:
- Self-adhesive foam strips for windows
- Letterbox flaps and brushes
- Chimney draught excluders
- Flexible fillers for gaps in floorboards
Install a smart meter
A smart meter allows you to monitor and manage your energy usage more effectively. These devices give you real-time feedback on your consumption and automatically transmit readings to your energy supplier, helping you avoid estimated bills. Some models can even help reduce energy use during peak times or when no one is home.
Improve your insulation
Enhancing your home’s insulation is one of the most effective strategies to lower energy costs. Poor insulation leads to significant heat loss through walls, roofs, and floors. Although there’s an upfront cost, the long-term savings on heating bills can be considerable, and a better Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating can increase your property’s appeal to buyers. For example, adding loft insulation could cut heat loss by up to 25%, as uninsulated homes lose a lot of heat through the roof.
Upgrade your boiler
An old boiler can be inefficient and costly. Modern condensing boilers offer much higher efficiency, potentially saving you hundreds of pounds on heating bills annually. If your boiler is over ten years old, consider upgrading it. Have a look for available grants or subsidies that could help offset the costs.
Consider a different energy supplier
Don’t stick with your current energy tariff without investigating your options – comparing rates could lead to significant savings. Use comparison websites to find better deals and think about switching to a fixed-rate tariff to protect yourself from future price hikes. Many energy providers also offer green energy plans, which can appeal to environmentally conscious buyers.
Find out the value of your home
Before making major upgrades, it’s important to know your home’s current market value. A professional valuation can provide insights into how your improvements might influence your property’s worth. At David James, our experienced team can provide you with a comprehensive valuation, helping you understand your home’s value and guide you in making informed decisions about your next steps.
Get in touch with our property experts at David James
