5 ways to make your old house as energy-efficient as a new one

New houses are built to strict standards. These include guidelines on environmental impact and energy efficiency. It’s better for your wallet and the environment.

Of course, many homes were built years ago and don’t benefit from the same level of energy efficiency. The good news is that you can quickly transform your old house into an energy-efficient one.

1. Surveying

The first thing you need to do is have an electrical survey done, including thermal imaging services. This will help you to date the electrics and confirm they are still safe.

But it will also help you to identify electrical leakage. In simple terms, inadequate circuits can cause you to drain electricity into the ground. While it is unlikely to cause a safety issue, it will increase energy usage.

Locating electrical leakages will allow you to get the problem resolved and save yourself money while saving the environment.

2. Replace Light Bulbs

It may seem like a small thing, but replacing your light bulbs can make a significant difference to your energy usage. Incandescent bulbs should be replaced with CFL or LED ones. These newer bulbs are o longer expensive, but they will save you money.

For example, if you have 25 bulbs in your home and pay around 11 cents per kilowatt-hour, you’ll likely save $20 a month with CFL and as much as $23 with LED bulbs!

3. Water Appliances

It’s time to replace your toilet! Older toilets generally use 7 liters of water per flush; modern toilets use just 2 liters but are just as effective. That’s a significant saving on your water bill and an easy way to make your home more energy-efficient.

You’ll also find the same is true for dishwashers and washing machines; newer versions use significantly less water. That’s good for your energy efficiency and the environment. After all, water is likely to become scarcer in the future.

4. Replace Windows And Doors

Double-glazed or even triple-glazed windows and doors are much better at keeping the heat in. That means you won’t need to spend as much on keeping the house warm during the winter months.

You’ll also find that older doors and windows are more likely to let draughts in around them, making the heat loss even more severe.

Replacing them is surprisingly straightforward. The cost of replacement can be offset against the savings in energy costs. You may even be able to qualify for a grant.

5. Insulation

Perhaps one of the best ways of transforming your home’s energy efficiency is to add insulation in the loft and even in the walls. Plenty of companies can help you get the best quality insulation fitted. The difference in the warmth inside your home will be impressive.

It can also help to keep your house cooler in the summer!

These small changes will make a massive difference in your energy usage and make your old house as energy efficient as a new one.