Beat the relentless fuel price hikes with an energy efficient home

(02^nd September 2013)

As the evenings get shorter and the end of the summer draws near, it’s hard not to think about the inevitable onset of winter, which brings not just bitter weather but bigger energy bills too as we turn up the heating to keep the cold at bay.

New figures released by the Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC) on energy trends and prices over the past 12 months show that domestic electricity prices rose by 8.1% between July 2012 and July 2013, whilst domestic gas prices increased by 8.5% over the same period.

At the same time, household budgets are being squeezed by rising prices on food, petrol and many other essentials, while salaries often remain at a standstill.

But there are lots of things that can be done to improve the energy efficiency of the home, all of which helps to keep the fuel bills down. Some are instant fixes, such as insulating the loft or using draught excluders, but it’s also worth thinking about longer-term investments where possible, which will provide benefits for years to come as energy prices continue to increase.

One of the best home improvements from an energy saving perspective is installing energy efficient windows and doors, as around 30 per cent of a home’s heat loss is due to it escaping through windows and doors.

Thanks to modern technology, energy saving windows such as Anglian’s A rated EcoGain windows can even help to heat the home. They look just like regular double glazed windows but their advanced technology lets in more sunlight, adding to the warmth within the home. They are also completely draught-free, so energy demands are cut from all sides, meaning homeowners could save hundreds of pounds a year on their energy bills

Melanie McDonald, Head of Marketing and Communications at Anglian Home Improvements, says, “Energy prices are escalating at such a tremendous rate, so it’s well worth thinking about investing in new energy efficient windows and doors in order to minimise energy consumption and maximise the benefit over the long-term. What’s more, the government’s Green Deal scheme enables homeowners to make energy saving improvements such as installing energy efficient double glazing without paying all the costs up-front, so it’s a win-win situation all round.”

Established in 1966, Anglian Home Improvements was one of the government’s first Green Deal providers and is an Energy Saving Trust Recommended supplier. It offers a broad selection of stylish and energy efficient products, including windows, doors conservatories, roof trim, solar panels and much more.



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