Energy Efficiency
The best response to rising fuel costs and climate change is to use energy more efficiently. A combination of practical measures and simple changes in behaviour can significantly reduce fuel use and harmful carbon dioxide emissions.
HEET offers the following measures free of charge to eligible people in Waltham Forest:
Loft insulation - As much as 30% of the heat in your home is lost through the roof. Fitting insulation can save you up to 20% of your fuel bill. If you have less than 150mm (6″) of loft insulation we can top this up to 270mm (10.5″).
Cavity wall insulation - The greatest proportion of heat loss (up to 50%) is through walls. For homes with cavity walls, mostly built after 1930, we can fit insulation.
Draught proofing - Up to 10% of heat loss is through draughts. HEET can fit draught proofing to doors and windows to give worthwhile energy savings and increased comfort.
Hot water cylinder and pipe insulation - These are essential measures to cut hot water costs.
Low energy light bulbs - These last ten times longer than older bulbs and use just one fifth of the energy for the same level of brightness.
Radiator reflector panels (right) - HEET can fit these to reduce heat loss and increase useful heat.
Enabling works - In some homes, window or door repairs may be needed before energy efficiency measures can be fitted effectively. Ventilation may also need to be improved. In certain circumstances, we may be able to help with this.
Energy Advice - We will carry out a detailed home survey and advise you on the most efficient use of heating, lighting and appliances, and recommend further cost-effective energy-saving measures.
Find out more information on:
Ten energy saving tips
- Do not leave TVs, stereos etc on standby as they continue to use significant amounts of electricity when in this mode.
- Only boil as much water as you need (but remember to cover the elements if you're using an electric kettle).
- Turn down your room thermostat (if you have one). For each degree, you could cut heating bills by up to 10%.
- If you buy an electric heater make sure that it has thermostatic control.
- Switch off lights that you don't need, including low energy lights.
- Turn off personal computers, monitors and printers when not in use.
- When you buy new appliances make sure that they are 'A' rated for energy efficiency.
- Switch to a greener energy supplier.
- Do not use a patio heater - they are an incredible waste of fuel!
- Do not install domestic air-conditioning as this will counteract all your other energy saving measures!
Be aware of all the ways in which you use energy at home, at work or when travelling. Think of ways that you can reduce them - and then do it!
For detailed energy advice see: more advice for energy saving from HEET.