Ways to insulate your home

There are many ways to insulate your home and reduce your energy consumption – and your heating bills. Although they may involve an initial financial outlay, you will start to recoup the costs in less than six months. You could also be eligible for grants or discounted offers to offset the cost of insulating your home.

1) Fit draught excluders

Get draught excluders for your doors and windows and don't forget to cover locks and the letter box.  This could save you £20 per year.

2) Update your boiler

Got an older boiler? There are many grants available to update it, especially if you have an oil-powered boiler. For more information visit Warm Front

3) Insulate your roof

On average, 25% of heat is lost through the roof.  Insulating your roof is usually less than a day's work. You'll feel the benefits immediately, and recoup your costs in approximately 12 months, making it one of the quickest and most cost-effective ways to save energy and money.

4) Insulate your cavity walls

On average, 33% of heat is lost through the outside walls of your house.  The initial outlay of cavity wall insulation will repay itself in 2-3 years, saving you lots of money and energy in the long-term.

5) Install double glazing

On average, 10-12% of heat is lost through windows. Get a grant to insulate your home through Warm Front

6) Shine on with energy efficient light bulbs

These are the quickest and easiest way to start reducing your electricity bills.  The bulbs last ten times longer and use around 80% less energy. You can buy them in your local supermarket or DIY store. You will recoup the cost of purchase within six months.

Traditional properties

If you have a traditional property i.e. your property has solid walls or likely to have been built pre-1919, these home energy improvements may be difficult.  For more options and advice about energy efficiency in traditional properties visit English Heritage.

Ring Act on Energy on 0800 988 2881 for impartial advice on whether you are eligible for free or discounted insulation.