Making your home more energy efficient ahead of winter

With energy costs increasing and making us more mindful of household budgets, deciding when to turn on the heating has become a bigger decision. Homeowners are also increasingly conscious of making their homes more energy efficient to reduce bills and environmental impact. Here, we explore the benefits of energy-efficient upgrades and how installing eco-friendly technologies can future-proof your home for the colder months.

The benefits of a sustainable home

The housing sector is responsible for a quarter of the UK’s total greenhouse gas emissions. As climate change concerns grow and energy prices continue to rise, the interest in sustainable living has increased considerably. The benefits of creating an energy-efficient home are becoming clearer: lower utility bills, a smaller carbon footprint, and even increased property value.

For example, installing solar panels can significantly reduce electricity bills by generating free power from sunlight. Annual savings can range from £300 to £700, depending on your energy use and the size of the installation. Homeowners can also earn money by selling excess energy back to the grid through the government’s Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) scheme.

Whether you're considering solar panels or heat pumps, reviewing renewable energy options is a wise investment for both your comfort and long-term savings.

Practice energy saving habits

As more homeowners recognize the financial and environmental benefits of saving energy, smart meters have become popular tools for monitoring household consumption. Alongside larger renewable energy installations, there are smaller changes you can make that also contribute to significant savings.

It’s important to make informed decisions when upgrading your home’s energy efficiency. Many myths — like whether it’s cheaper to leave the heating on all day—can cloud judgement. While installing solar panels or heat pumps offers large-scale savings, simple steps like using LED light bulbs, unplugging unused devices, and draught-proofing your home can also cut down energy bills.

Insulation: a key to comfort

Proper insulation is one of the most effective ways to reduce heating costs and increase comfort during winter.

Without it, heat escapes through walls, windows, and roofs, leading to higher bills. Some of the most impactful insulation measures include:

• Draught-proofing windows and doors
• Sealing gaps in floors and around skirting boards
• Installing rugs or fitted carpets
• Upgrading to double- or triple-glazed windows
• Insulating lofts and cavity walls

If your property still has single-glazed windows, it’s worth considering an upgrade. About 20% of a home’s heat loss occurs through poorly insulated windows. Government grants may be available to help with insulation projects, making it a good time to address heat loss from roofs, walls, and lofts.

Heating and water: smarter choices

When reviewing your heating options, consider upgrading to a modern gas central heating boiler if your current boiler is over 15 years old. Heat pumps are also gaining attention as an eco-friendly alternative, extracting heat from air, water, or ground sources to warm your home efficiently. Alongside heating, water use is another area where you can make sustainable changes. Installing eco taps, aerated shower heads, and dual-flush toilets can help lower your water and energy consumption without sacrificing comfort.

Adding value to your home

Making sustainable changes is not just about staying warm—it’s also an investment in your property’s future. Homes with high energy efficiency are increasingly in demand, with buyers willing to pay a premium for eco-friendly properties. Upgrading your home now can enhance its value when it’s time to sell, making these changes financially smart in the long term.

Energy-efficient windows and doors

One of the biggest culprits for heat loss in homes is poorly insulated windows and doors. Older, single-glazed windows and draughty doors allow heat to escape, leading to higher energy bills. Upgrading to double- or triple-glazed windows or installing composite doors can significantly reduce heat loss, lowering energy consumption and creating a more comfortable living environment. Windows and doors don’t just impact energy efficiency—orientation matters too. North-facing windows, for example, get less sunlight, so focusing insulation efforts there can make a bigger difference.

Other energy-efficient upgrades

While windows and doors are major factors, there are other ways to make your home more energy-efficient:

Air Source Heat Pumps: Extract heat from outside air, providing a low-carbon alternative to traditional boilers. They offer substantial energy savings and lower carbon emissions.

Cavity wall insulation: Filling the gap between external and internal walls helps retain heat, making homes warmer in winter and cooler in summer.

Energy-efficient appliances: Modern appliances like Energy Star-rated refrigerators, dishwashers, and washing machines use significantly less energy than older models, contributing to long-term savings.

Simple steps for a greener home

If you’re not ready for major renovations, there are plenty of quick, cost-effective ways to improve your home’s energy efficiency:

Switch to LED bulbs – Use 75% less energy than traditional bulbs.

Use a smart thermostat – Control your heating remotely and schedule temperature changes to avoid unnecessary energy use.

Seal draughts – Use draught excluders and weather stripping around doors and windows to block cold air.

Unplug unused electronics – Eliminate "phantom" energy by disconnecting devices when not in use.

Wash clothes at lower temperatures – Washing at 30°C can save energy without sacrificing cleanliness.

Make use of natural light – Open curtains during the day to warm your home with sunlight.

Invest in your home’s future

Making your home more energy efficient this winter is not only a smart financial decision but also a contribution to a greener future. Whether you choose major upgrades like solar panels or smaller changes like draught-proofing, every step you take will help reduce your energy consumption and create a more sustainable home.