Homes and energy
Home upgrades can save energy – helping to lower your bills and your carbon footprint. Some quick changes can make a real difference. Such as using LED light bulbs and energy-efficient appliances.
Insulating roof spaces and walls can lower the amount of energy lost through them. And it may be worth upgrading your boiler or using a new source of heating such as a heat pump.
How much will it cost and what could you save on bills?
The Government website gives estimate costs for making improvements. It can also tell you how much you could save on energy bills. Go to www.gov.uk/improve-energy-efficiency.
Getting quotes and finding a contractor
Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) has advice on getting quotes and recommends contractors. And you can speak to an advisor. Go to www.yourhomebetter.co.uk.
Help with the costs
Grants, loans and other forms of help are available for residents in Manchester. Use the GMCA retrofit portal to see if you can get help with energy improvements. Go to www.gmca.retrofitportal.org.uk.
Green energy
Switching to green energy can make a big carbon saving. Green energy is renewable power from wind, water, sun and biofuels. The GM Green Switch can help you find the right tariff. Find out more at www.bigcleanswitch.org/gm.
Solar panels
Solar panels can generate electricity and heat water. Try the Energy Saving Trust’s calculator to find out how much you could save on your energy bills. Go to www.pvfitcalculator.energysavingtrust.org.uk.
Green Economy have a free, independent solar calculator. It can assess feasibility, capacity, carbon savings, cost and payback. You’ll get a free report. And the option to work with their consultants to find a local supplier. Find it at www.greeneconomy.co.uk/tools/solar-calculator.
Heat pumps
In most homes, changing the boiler is often the most cost-effective way to lower emissions. A heat pump is a renewable option. Your Home Better has useful information on how heat pumps work and whether they’ll be a good option for you. The Energy Saving Trust goes into a bit more depth on how heat pumps work and likely costs and savings.
Money saving tips
Find ways to save money (and lower your carbon footprint) using trusted websites. Such as the Energy Saving Trust and In our Nature.
Water saving
There are water saving devices that fit to taps and showers. Many water companies give them away for free. Find out how you can save water and reduce your bill on the United Utilities website.
Get a discounted water butt for your garden from www.savewatersavemoney.co.uk.