6 Ways Your House is Losing Heat and How to Fix It
Losing heat from your home is not only uncomfortable but also costly. Identifying where heat escapes can help you make your home more energy-efficient and reduce your heating bills. Here are six common ways your house might be losing heat and how to address them.
1. Insufficient Wall Insulation
In the UK, walls are responsible for a significant portion of heat loss in homes. About 35% of heat can escape through poorly insulated walls. Cavity wall insulation is common in the UK and involves injecting insulating material into the space between the external and internal walls. This method effectively reduces heat loss by preventing air circulation within the cavity.
2. Leaky Windows and Doors
Windows and doors are major sources of heat loss in UK homes, responsible for about 25-30% of heating energy use. Heat escapes through poorly insulated windows and doors via radiation and air leaks. Weatherstripping and caulking gaps around windows and doors can significantly reduce this loss. Additionally, upgrading to double or triple glazing is a popular solution.
3. Poor Roof and Loft Insulation
In the UK, up to 25% of heat loss can occur through the roof if it is not properly insulated. Adding insulation to your attic or loft is one of the most effective ways to prevent heat loss. UK building regulations often recommend a minimum thickness of loft insulation to ensure energy efficiency. Make sure to cover all areas without leaving gaps, especially around loft hatches and eaves.
4. Uninsulated Floors
Floors can account for up to 10% of heat loss in a UK home. Insulating floors, particularly in older buildings with suspended timber floors, is crucial. Installing insulation between the ground and the floor surface can help retain heat. In new builds, sufficient insulation is typically installed during construction, but older homes may benefit from retrofitting floor insulation
5. Gaps and Cracks in the External Walls
Small gaps and cracks around windows, doors, and in walls can allow warm air to escape and cold air to enter. In the UK, air sealing these gaps with caulk and expanding foam is an effective way to reduce heat loss. Pay special attention to areas where different building materials meet, such as around chimneys, vents, and wiring holes.
6. Inefficient Heating Systems
In the UK, inefficient heating systems can significantly contribute to heat loss. Boilers, for example, should be set to an optimal temperature for energy efficiency. Lowering the boiler’s flow temperature to around 60°C can improve efficiency and reduce heat loss through the flue. Regular maintenance and upgrading to more efficient systems, such as condensing boilers, can also help reduce heat loss.
Improving your home’s insulation and sealing air leaks are crucial steps in reducing heat loss. Not only will these measures make your home more comfortable, but they will also save you money on energy bills and reduce your environmental footprint. By addressing these common areas of heat loss, you can ensure your home is energy-efficient and cozy throughout the UK’s cold months.
At Cavitech, we understand that choosing the right solution for your home can be overwhelming. Give us a call today for a friendly chat to help you find the best option. With over a decade of experience, we’ve been keeping homes warm and cozy. Check out our exceptional rating on Checkatrade!
