Homeowners offered tips on boosting energy efficiency

26 April 2012

Posted by Kim Bardsley

A pair of experts have been offering tips for homeowners on how they can make properties more efficient and drive down heating oil costs in the process.

Anna Laycock from Ecology Building Society told the Ecologist magazine that putting green measures in place will significantly cut bills while making a home much warmer and more comfortable to live in.

However, she recommended seeking advice from someone with experience in retrofit to get the best results.

Chris Newman from Parity Projects agreed, adding: "If you've got the skills to carry out some of the work or management yourself then that's great, but don't underestimate the amount of time it will take."

He explained that key things to consider include a new boiler, loft insulation and draught prevention - both of the latter recently recommended by Neil Marshall, chief executive of the National Insulation Association.

Ms Laycock also suggested speaking to an assessor about the government's Green Deal, as some energy-saving measures may be available on a loan that is paid back through future utility bills.

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