The owner, a single occupant who had recently renovated the property, wanted advice on improving the energy efficiency and general management of her home. She mentioned that her heating bills had been quite high during her first winter there, and she was eager to find ways to reduce costs.
The flat, around 53 square meters in size, had two bedrooms, a living room, kitchen, and bathroom. It featured double-glazed sash windows, loft insulation, and an independent ground-floor entrance with internal stairs. The owner had already achieved an EPC grade C but was open to further improvements.
Heating and Hot Water
The advisors reviewed the heating system—a gas combi boiler with central heating—and suggested lowering the water temperature to the radiators slightly. Maintaining a consistent low-level heat, rather than sudden high bursts, would likely improve comfort and efficiency. They recommended an experimental period to monitor energy use and bills.
Bills and Tariffs
The owner currently paid her energy supplier quarterly and was closely monitoring her usage via a SMART meter. She planned to install a prepayment SMART meter once the flat was ready for a lodger, enabling fair cost sharing and remote management through an app while she worked abroad.
Thermal Camera Survey
A walk-through with a thermal heat camera revealed a few areas for improvement. The owner had already added reflective foils behind radiators, but the advisors recommended using thicker curtains or blinds to retain heat, particularly in the winter months. They also discussed better laundry drying options, such as a heated airer, to avoid moisture buildup and mould.
Future Improvements
The conversation turned to longer-term sustainability. With ownership of the property’s freehold, the owner could consider installing solar panels, a battery, or even a heat pump. The advisors explained potential savings and pointed out that interest-free solar installation deals and government grants for heat pumps could substantially reduce upfront costs. They left her with information sheets and recommended seeking several quotes from reputable installers.
Final Thoughts
The visit lasted about ninety minutes, and the owner received a pack of tailored handouts and a few free items to help manage energy use and stay warm.
The advisors’ key suggestions were:
- Adjust the radiator flow temperature to around 60°C (or slightly lower) and maintain steady background heating—approximately 16°C at night and 18–21°C during the day.
- Use blinds or curtains strategically to retain heat while preserving natural light.
- Explore renewable energy grants and interest-free purchase options for solar and heat pumps.
The owner’s proactive approach, research, and sustainability-minded outlook were noted as impressive. She was encouraged to reach out for further advice whenever needed.