I Made My Home Energy-Smart, and Now My Bills Are Down

Mar 13, 2024 | Energy Efficiency, Home Improvements

If you’re looking to make your home in the Northeast a bit more cosy and keep your energy bills from skyrocketing, you’ve landed in the right place. Based on my own journey to turn my draughty old house into something a bit more energy efficient, I’ve got some canny tips to share. Let’s crack on, shall we?

Tip 1. Getting Your House Wrapped Up

First things first, insulation and weatherproofing are proper crucial. It’s like putting a warm hat and scarf on your cold house when the cold winds blow in from the North Sea. I packed my attic and walls with insulation, and it’s made a world of difference. And don’t forget about those sneaky draughts around doors and windows. A bit of weather stripping or caulking goes a long way. I did, and now there’s no more sitting in the living room with a coat on.

Tip 2. Heating: Out with the Old, In with the New

Now, let’s natter about heating. That old boiler chugging away in the basement? It might be time to say goodbye. Upgrading to a high-efficiency boiler or an air source heat pump can save you a mint in the long run. I switched to an air source heat pump myself, and not only is my house toastier, but my bills have gone down a treat too.

Tip 3. Catching Some Rays, Even in the Northeast

You might not think it, but even up here, solar panels can do the trick. Slap some of these bad boys on your roof, and you’ll be generating your own energy. It’s a canny investment. I was a bit sceptical at first, mind, but I’ve been pleasantly surprised by how much I’ve saved. Plus, with the incentives and rebates going, it’s a no-brainer.

Tip 4. Don’t Let Heat Escape Through the Windows

And here’s a tip I wish I’d known sooner: upgrading your windows and doors can make a huge difference. I swapped out my old single-glazed windows for double-glazing, and it’s been a game-changer. No more feeling like there’s a gale blowing through the living room.

Tip 5. Smart Tech for a Smarter Home

Lastly, don’t overlook smart home technology. A smart heating thermostat can learn your schedule and adjust the heating so you’re not wasting energy when you’re not in. It’s a bit like having someone turn the kettle on just before you walk in the door. Perfect timing, every time.

Wrapping It Up

So, there you have it. A few straightforward changes can really turn your home around. It’s not just about being snug and saving a few quid, though that’s a big part of it. It’s also about doing our bit for the planet. We’ve got a beautiful corner of the world here in the Northeast, and it’s up to us to look after it. If I can do it, so can you. It’s all about taking that first step. So, what are you waiting for? Get stuck in, and before you know it, you’ll be enjoying a warmer home, lower bills, and the satisfaction of knowing you’re making a difference. Cheers!

Michael C.

Michael C.

Author

I’m Michael. I started this blog to share my knowledge and enthusiasm for the building industry. I believe in the power of sharing information, and I hope my website can assist both industry peers and those seeking to better understand the world of home improvements and construction.