Making buildings energy efficient - how to get started.

We are all looking for ways to reduce energy use and minimise our carbon emissions.  Making the buildings we use more efficient can be a big part of this.  It is important to take a “whole building” approach, looking at its life cycle and how it is used, and taking proportionate and effective actions.

We would probably want to focus on small scale quick wins first and then look a larger changes where appropriate.  It can be helpful to think of this in three stages:

1. Quick wins that can be easily implemented (e.g. turning thermostats down a degree or two, or off in rooms that aren’t in use)

2. Changes that can be integrated into regular or planned maintenance (e.g. making sure boilers are well maintained and controls working properly)

3. Changes that will require capital investment (e.g. replacing an aging boiler with a heat pump)

The best place to start with building efficiency is normally with draught proofing leaky windows & doors.  This can have significant benefits at a relatively low cost and with minimal risk of complications.  If existing windows are in reasonable condition, secondary glazing (installing a second pane inside the existing window) is often a better option than replacing them with new windows.

Loft and floor insulation are generally the best next steps, and using permeable insulation is generally the best option.  Be very wary of spray foams as these can block air circulation and lead to condensation build up.

Wall insulation can be a good option, but should always be done by a qualified professional. Cavity wall insulation is often relatively straight forward but anything that effects the breathability of solid walls can lead to damp problems.

Historic England have a useful resource to help you find qualified professional especially when working with older buildings:  https://historicengland.org.uk/advice/your-home/maintain-repair/finding-specialist-help/

Ensuring that existing heating systems are well maintained and operating efficiently is almost certainly better than replacing them, unless that are really old or no longer functioning properly.  There is a move towards heat pumps, and these should be more efficient.  However it is really important that systems are designed and specified correctly, and should be installed as part of an overall plan to improve efficiency.

If you are thinking of moving to a new property looking at it’s energy efficiency and estimating running costs should be part of the decision making process.  Owners should provide Energy Performance Certificates to prospective tenants or purchasers.

If you would like to discuss how this could apply to your organisation, feel free to drop me a message.