Cobh Tidy Towns Tips For Saving Energy

In most developed countries we waste 50% of all energy generated through inefficiency and lack of awareness. We can take the following actions in our own homes to reduce our energy costs.

STOP DRAFTS
Seal gaps in the floor, skirting and ceiling.
Fit draft excluding strips around doors and windows.
Hang heavy curtains over doors and windows.
Close off fireplaces whilst not in use.
Close doors between rooms.
Check the attic hatch for drafts.

INSULATE YOUR ATTIC
Insulating your attic with 300mm of good quality insulation has a payback of less than 4 years.
If it is some years since you insulated your attic, consider topping up your existing insulation.
Check the attic hatch door fits well and has no drafts. Attaching insulation to the upper side of the hatch will save even more energy.

INSULATE BEHIND RADIATORS ON OUTSIDE WALLS
Purchase and fit foil backed panels behind radiators on outside walls.
Alternatively make and fit your own panels from corrugated cardboard wrapped in tin foil.

LAG YOUR TANK
Fit an insulation jacket for your hot water storage tank.
Insulate hot water pipes with foam insulation where accessible
Set hot water thermostat to 60C or less.

REPLACE LIGHT BULBS WITH ENERGY EFFICIENT ONES
As standard light bulbs need replacing, purchase energy efficient ones. You can move light bulbs around so that the energy efficient ones are in the areas you use most often.