Keep cosy

There’s a chill in the air, but what about your home? A cold house can lead to serious health issues, so we asked energy efficiency experts Sustainability Trust how to keep warm, and save money too.

Where’s my heat going?

Heat and energy are like slippery balloons, escaping in every direction. Up to 35 per cent through the ceiling, 30 per cent through windows, 15 per cent through the underfloor and 10 per cent from draughts. Even if your home has some insulation, if it was installed before 2006 or the building was built before 1978 then it’s unlikely to be to standard. Unfortunately, old insulation lasts around just ten years, is easily damaged and usually has been badly installed with big gaps that let the heat out. Many homes don’t have any underfloor insulation at all, which keeps bills high and homes cold and unhealthy.

The good news is it’s cheaper than you think to get insulation installed, topped up or repaired, with low-cost repayment plans and 50 per cent off for low-income households (tenants or homeowners). Good quality, lined and fitted curtains are crucial to keeping homes warm, and a great excuse for a stylish new look too!

Products that help

GreenStuf polyester insulation is the best quality, environmentally friendly and long-life option for ceiling, underfloor and walls. It’s safe around children and asthma, and is made in New Zealand from recycled materials. Don’t forget a ground vapour barrier to stop cold damp rising from the ground. Choose a professional installer like Sustainability Trust for a building code guaranteed service, or if you’re a DIY fan then make sure to check EECA website for installation guidance.

This winter our best-selling heater is Panasonic’s Delux Inverter Ducted system, an all-in-one kit which offers adjustable full home heating at half the price of other ducted systems. For single room heating, the Atlantic Tatou radiant heater and the Fujitsu Compact Hi Wall Premier range are excellent options for fast heating, automatic settings and energy efficiency ratings.

Tackle draughts with floor length curtains, door snakes or draught excluder tape such as V-Seal.