From Ridge Clean Energy
Everyone’s energy system and consumption are different, but some simple things could make a big difference to your energy use and bills. These are only suggestions, as we’re just passing along information we’ve gathered. If you think any of these products might be suitable for your home, please read the fitting instructions carefully before use.
- Hot water cylinder jackets
Not everyone has a hot water cylinder tank but if you do, insulating the water tank with a thick jacket can cut heat loss by up to 75% – and the cost can be recouped in less than a year. The insulation will keep your water hot for longer as it prevents heat escaping from the tank. This is really useful in busy households who use a fair amount of hot water.
Typically, the costs range from £19 to £23. Jackets come in four separate panels of 80mm thick, with cords to secure the panels. They might not be suitable for confined areas.
- Radiator reflector panels
This product will help reflect the heat from a radiator back into the room rather than escaping through the wall, which can help reduce heat loss by up to 50% and cut heating bills.
Radiator reflector panels can be fitted with minimal installation time and very little tools or knowledge are required. The panels are either clipped to the back of the radiator or double-sided sticky tape can be used.
Recommended by British Gas and the Solid Fuel Advisory Service, they typically cost around £8 for a 4-metre roll.
- Chimney Sheep® – Chimney Draught Excluder
A Chimney Sheep® is a removable chimney draught excluder made from highly durable, naturally breathable Herdwick wool. The wool is felted to create a perfect plug for the chimney and a handle added for easy insertion and removal. It comes in a circular and rectangular plug.
A Chimney Sheep® makes your home feel more comfortable by stopping warm air escaping and preventing cold air coming in, as well as reducing wind noise, energy bills, CO2 emissions and any debris that may fall down your chimney. The cost ranges from £18 to £70 depending on the size of the chimney, and can be recouped within three to six months.
- Slow cooker
Slow cookers are cheaper to run than conventional ovens. They use less electricity than standard light bulbs, and are among the kitchen’s most energy-efficient appliances. Although they take longer to cook food, they’re rated at as little as 200 watts – less than a tenth of some electric ovens.
A slow cooker is a great option for singles, couples and families looking to cook low-cost, nutritious meals. Prices range from around £18 to £22, depending on capacity (generally 1.5 to 3.5 litres) and brand.
- Draught-proofing
Draught-proofing is one of the cheapest and most effective ways to save energy and money in any type of building. Draught-proofing around windows and doors could save you around £60 a year. And if you have an open chimney, draught-proofing it when not in use could save around £90 a year*.
If you’re happy carrying out simple DIY tasks, draught-proofing will be no problem. Costs are around £6.50 for a 10-metre foam-based roll, or £7.50 for a 5-metre wool roll.
*Savings based on a typical gas-fuelled semi-detached property.
Need a little more help? Ask NEP.
Nottingham Energy Partnership (NEP) is a charity that helps with all sorts of energy-related queries. You can give them a ring with your questions on 0115 985 9057. Their lines are open from Monday to Friday, 9am to 5.30pm.
Or, take a look at their website at www.nottenergy.com.
Ridge Clean Energy