One of the principal aims of the GoWarm project is to reduce energy bills by reducing the amount of energy used in homes throughout the target area.

As well as carrying out insulation and other work, the team will deliver energy advice for people face to face in their own homes. This will be given by the surveyor when he visits to see what other work needs to be done.

The advice will include simple tips like turning heating thermostats down by one or more degrees and installing simple draught proofing.

Tips to save energy in your home

• Cavity Wall Insulation
  Up to 35% of heat is lost through the walls of your home. Insulating your cavity walls can save up to £100 per year.
• Loft Insulation
  An uninsulated or poorly insulated loft can account for 25% of the heat loss from a typical house. Insulating your loft can save £80-£100 per year.
• Heating
  Keep a regular check on thermostats. Turning down 1oC can save up to 10% on energy consumption.
• Washing
  A shower rather than a bath uses, on average, one fifth of the hot water.
• Hot Water Tank
  Make sure it is properly lagged with a minimum 80mm jacket.
• Laundry
  Wash clothes at 40oC – a quarter of the cost of the hottest cycle.
• Low Energy Lamps
  Low energy lamps use one fifth of the energy of an ordinary light bulb. Energy cost savings over the lifetime of the lamps £50-£60.
• Doors and Windows
  Draught proofing saves heat loss and improves the comfort of your home.
• Fridges/Freezers
  Locate in a cool place. Defrost regularly.
• Kettles
  Boil only as much water as needed for immediate use.
• Cooking
  Microwave ovens use up to 75% less energy to heat food than conventional cookers.
• Energy Efficiency Labelling
  Look out for the energy label next time you purchase a fridge, freezer or a laundry appliance. Purchase the most efficient that you can afford.