Application to the home

In all homes there is always the possibility of saving energy, but the total savings might be higher in some types of dwellings than others. For example insulating external walls is straightforward if there is a cavity between the outer and inner walls. This is much more difficult if there is no cavity as the insulation has to be fitted to either the outside of inside of the wall.

If you live in an apartment block, then collective action by all residents might be necessary for individual families to benefit.

If you live in rented accommodation, only some options for saving energy are available and others must be borne by the owner. The owner therefore needs to be convinced that specific energy efficient products and services will increase the value of the dwelling.

Quality of life

Energy saving measures can also lead to improved comfort in the home. Improving the insulation for example will lead to a more even temperature distribution, less condensation and fewer dust mites which can affect breathing.

No cost measures

Measures to save energy that have no associated costs include:

• Switching off equipment and appliances and not leaving them 'on stand by'
• wearing warmer indoor clothes
• programming the heating to come on for shorter periods and heat to a slightly lower temperature

Low cost measures

Measures to save energy that have a low associated cost include:

• draught proofing windows and doors
• using low energy light bulbs
• taking a low flow shower instead of a bath
• fitting thermostats to the radiators
• using reflector sheets behind radiators to reduce the loss of heat to the walls

Effect of climate

Climate has an effect on the comfort level inside a dwelling. In areas exposed to rain and wind, waterproofing is essential to ensure that moisture does not penetrate the inner walls. In areas with high humidity, condensation can be prevented by adequate insulation and ventilation. In buildings which are poorly insulated, some form of heating is required to maintain comfort and the building fabric. Other energy efficiency measures are not climate dependent.

Environmental impacts

There are few direct impacts and these only apply to very specific locations. In general, energy efficiency measures have little or no impact.

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