Ecowarm understands the need for efficient heating and lower energy consumption in the home. We’re proud to say that our German electric radiators can help to greatly reduce your electricity bill.
Efficient home insulation can make a significant contribution to reducing the amount of energy required to heat your home as well as cutting the cost of your bills. But how do you go about having the best insulation in your home?
There are several types of insulation available, some of which are subsidised by many big energy providers to people who meet certain benefit criteria. However British Gas is giving away free loft and cavity wall insulation to anyone with a suitable home.
What insulation is available?
Cavity wall insulation.
Most homes built post 1920 have a gap between internal and external walls. Filling the cavity with insulating material keeps the cold air out and the warm air in.
Loft insulation
Up to a quarter of your home’s heat escapes through the roof, but this can easily be solved by insulating the loft space or roof.
How much can you save?
The Energy Saving Trust estimates that wall cavity insulation typically costs £400 to install (including labour), and can save an average three-bedroom home up to £140 in the first year. Loft insulation for a similar house costs on average about £300 and can save £150 per year. You can use the Energy Trust’s online calculator to estimate savings and cost of insulation.
Is your property suitable?
Not all properties are suitable for cavity wall or loft insulation; however most providers conduct a free survey.
Homes won’t be suitable if…
- You live in a flat and can’t co-ordinate with all the other tenants.
- Your home is timber or metal-framed, or made from natural stone or concrete.
- If your home has damp problems, these need to be rectified first.
Do you qualify for free or subsidised insulation?
Most energy companies require you to receive child tax credit and have an income of £15,860 or under or to be receiving certain benefits such as pension credit. You won’t be able to get free insulation if you live in a housing association property or are a council tenant.
However, British Gas is currently providing free insulation with no restrictions on your income or the number of benefits you’re receiving.
A quick way to check if you qualify is to call the Energy Saving Trust.
What if you don’t qualify?
If you don’t qualify you can still benefit from home insulation. Companies such as Westville Group are able to supply and install a range of insulation products. Other companies such as London Insulation offer specialist roof insulation using Foam manufactured in Canada by Icynene.
Ultimately insulation for the home is often a worthwhile investment, especially if you qualify to receive free or subsidised services.
If you have any questions about making your home more energy efficient, get in touch and request a free home survey.