In today’s world, where sustainability and cost-efficiency are key priorities for many property owners, home insulation offers a simple yet powerful solution to reduce energy costs and lower carbon emissions.
Insulation acts as a thermal barrier, helping to maintain a stable indoor temperature regardless of the weather outside. Without it, homes may lose heat quicker in colder weather and absorb excess heat in warmer weather, leading to increased reliance on heating and cooling systems, which drives energy bills up.
Investing in quality insulation can significantly reduce energy consumption and energy bills. For example, a UK household can lose up to one-third of its heat due to poor insulation, effectively throwing away £1 for every £3 spent on heating. By insulating your walls, floors, and loft you can save £630–£730 annually on energy bills and reduce your annual CO2 emissions by 1.4 to 1.7 tonnes per year.
Insulation offers more than just financial benefits, it’s a powerful ally in the fight against climate change. By reducing energy consumption, insulation lowers carbon emissions, as less fuel is required to produce electricity or power heating systems. According to the Energy Saving Trust UK, improving insulation in homes can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to cleaner air and a healthier planet. For instance, installing external wall insulation on older buildings has been found to reduce carbon emissions by 40%.
While installing or upgrading insulation requires an initial investment, the long-term benefits can far outweigh the upfront costs. The average payback period for insulation typically ranges from three to seven years, but this can vary depending on the specific type of insulation and your current energy consumption. For example, if you spend £1,100 on 270mm of loft insulation on a detached house and save £380 per year on heating bills, you could expect a payback period of approximately 2.5 years. You will also help the environment by saving 1000Kg CO2..
The Great British Insulation Scheme offers free insulation, such as loft and cavity wall insulation, to eligible households in England, Wales, and Scotland, helping to reduce energy bills by up to £300 a year
In addition, a well-insulated home increases overall property value. Energy-efficient homes are increasingly desirable in the real estate market. Therefore, homeowners who invest in insulation can expect a higher resale value and a competitive edge when selling their property.
Nicholas Donnithorne, UK Technical Manager at Rentokil Property Care, shares expert recommendations for optimising home insulation to reduce both your energy bills and carbon emissions:
- Seal air leaks: Seal gaps around windows, doors, vents, and outlets with weather stripping, caulk, or foam to prevent draughts and heat loss. However, you must ensure that ‘feed air’ is still provided for open fires and heating appliances, to prevent the build-up of toxic Carbon Monoxide.
- Upgrade loft insulation: Ensure your attic has enough insulation (fibreglass, cellulose, or spray foam) to prevent heat loss in winter and reduce cooling costs in summer. However, avoid blocking eaves ventilation, as this can lead to condensation forming in the loft.
- Use eco-friendly materials: Opt for insulation made from recycled or sustainable materials like recycled glass bottle insulation, cellulose, sheep’s wool, or natural fibres. However, it’s worth noting that sheep’s wool and natural fibre insulation can under certain circumstances attract pests.
- Insulate walls and floors: Install cavity wall, solid wall, and underfloor insulation where viable to prevent heat loss and increase energy efficiency.
- Install double-glazed windows: Double or triple-glazed windows improve insulation by sealing an inert gas inside the glazing unit, which slows heat transfer, keeping your home warmer in winter and cooler in summer.
- Consider reflective insulation: With climate change, some properties can suffer from overheating in summer, use reflective insulation on the windows to reflect heat away, reducing the need for air conditioning.
- Regular maintenance: Periodically check your insulation for wear, moisture, or settling, and replace it as needed to maintain energy efficiency.