EASTER bank holiday weekend is the ideal time to tackle simple home‑improvement jobs to improve comfort and energy use, says Wokingham Borough Council.
To help residents identify cold spots in the home, they can borrow a thermal imaging camera from one of the council’s borough libraries.
At the top of the council’s list of easy DIY recommendations is loft insulation.
Most heat is lost through the roof, it says, so checking the loft and topping up insulation is one of the quickest and most effective ways to reduce heat loss.
And for homes that already have insulation, adding more to reach the recommended 270mm depth can improve performance and save money.
Draught proofing is another fast job that pays back immediately by stopping cold air creeping in.
And to avoid condensation and mould the council advises ventilating the home for a few minutes each day.
People can also help their heating system work more efficiently, and save on their energy costs by adjusting thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs), room‑by‑room, to heat only the spaces people are using.
Wrapping hot water pipes in foam sleeves (available from most DIY stores) can keep water hotter for longer, and can be fitted in minutes, while a jacket tank jacket fitted round the hot water tank can also help to trap in heat, and cut down bills (jackets of at least 80 mm thick give the best results).
And swapping older bulbs for LED lighting is a simple way to reduce electricity use.
For more tips and to book a thermal imaging camera, visit: wokingham.gov.uk/libraries and search for Home energy-saving advice.
