With the cold weather setting in, now is good time to do a bit of work to keep you warm and help save some money.
There’s a misconception that to have an energy efficient home you need to spend a fortune and have all the latest technologies.
I have found that people are very confused with all the gadgets on the market. Think of it this way – there’s no point in having a great stereo in your car if your engine doesn’t work! You should focus on insulation and the basics. These tips will give you the greatest value for money, i.e. the largest payback for outlay of money (prices are a guide). A lot of them are eligible for SEAI grants (I’ve listed the amounts).
1 Improve heating controls by fitting thermostats. Cost: €1,500; grant available €400; final cost: €1,100.
2 Fit a lagging jacket on your hot water tank a minimum of 50mm thick. Cost: €100.
3 Fit energy efficient light bulbs. Cost: €150.
4 Upgrade your boiler to a 92% efficient boiler. Cost: €3,500; grant available €560; final cost: €2,940.
5 Add attic insulation of at least a foot. Cost: €1,300; grant available €200; final cost: €1,100.
6 Insulate primary pipe work – that’s all the pipes coming from your hot tank, €150.
Check out www.seai.ie for more information on grants.
