As an experienced central heating installer in Horsham, I’ve worked with many homeowners who live in charming but older properties. These homes are full of character, yet they often struggle when it comes to energy efficiency. With rising energy costs and growing environmental concerns, improving your home’s efficiency is both a smart investment and a responsible choice. In this article, I’ll share five effective ways to make your older home more energy-efficient without losing its unique charm.
1. Upgrade Your Boiler and Heating System
One of the most impactful improvements you can make in an older home is upgrading your central heating system. If your boiler is more than 10–15 years old, it’s likely operating below modern efficiency standards. Replacing it with a new A-rated condensing boiler can reduce your heating bills by up to 30%.
Modern boilers work more efficiently by recovering heat that older models simply lose through the flue. A professional boiler installation ensures your heating system runs efficiently and safely. It’s also worth adding smart heating controls that let you adjust temperatures in different areas of your home. This not only increases comfort but also helps you avoid wasting energy when rooms aren’t in use.
2. Insulate Walls, Roofs, and Floors
If you’re wondering how to make your home more energy efficient in Horsham, insulation should be high on your list. Many older homes were built before modern insulation standards were introduced, meaning they lose heat quickly through walls, roofs, and floors. Improved insulation reduces this heat loss and keeps your home warmer for longer.
Here are a few areas to focus on:
- Loft insulation: Upgrading to at least 270mm of insulation can significantly cut down heat loss through the roof.
- Cavity wall insulation: If your walls have cavities, filling them is one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to improve efficiency.
- Solid wall insulation: Older homes with solid walls may need internal or external insulation solutions to prevent draughts.
Improving insulation not only makes your home warmer in winter but also helps keep it cooler in summer – making your energy use more balanced year-round.
3. Seal Draughts and Replace Inefficient Windows
Older homes often suffer from draughts around doors, windows, and floorboards. These small gaps can lead to significant heat loss and make your heating system work harder than necessary. Draught-proofing is a low-cost way to improve comfort and energy efficiency immediately.
Start by sealing gaps around window frames and external doors using weatherstripping or silicone sealant. If your windows are single-glazed, consider upgrading to double or even triple glazing for improved heat retention. If your property is listed or located in a conservation area, secondary glazing can be a great alternative that preserves the character of your home while boosting performance.
4. Switch to Smart Heating Controls
Installing smart thermostats and programmable heating controls is another fantastic way to increase energy efficiency in an older home. With today’s technology, you can manage your heating schedule remotely through your phone or tablet, ensuring you’re only using energy when it’s needed.
Smart heating systems can learn your household’s routines and automatically optimise heating times to maintain comfort while cutting unnecessary energy use. Pairing these with thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs) allows you to heat only specific rooms rather than the whole house, providing greater flexibility and savings.
5. Maintain and Service Your Heating Equipment Regularly
Even the most efficient boiler won’t perform well if it’s not properly maintained. Regular servicing keeps your heating system running smoothly, prevents breakdowns, and ensures it operates at maximum efficiency. An expert boiler service in Horsham includes checks for leaks, blockages, and worn components that could reduce performance or safety.
A well-maintained boiler uses less energy, warms the home more evenly, and lasts longer, saving you from costly replacements in the future. Scheduling annual servicing is a small step that makes a big difference in both performance and energy efficiency.
Additional Energy-Saving Tips
Beyond major upgrades, there are several smaller changes you can make to further enhance your home’s efficiency. Simple steps such as using LED lighting, adding radiator reflectors, and fitting thick curtains can all help retain heat. Replacing old appliances with energy-efficient models and using low-flow showerheads can also reduce electricity and water consumption.
Another valuable approach is to monitor your energy usage carefully. Installing a smart meter allows you to see real-time data on your energy consumption, helping you make informed decisions about when and how you use power most effectively.
Why Efficiency Matters for Older Homes in Horsham
Many of Horsham’s beautiful older homes were built with solid brick or stone walls and single-glazed windows, which don’t naturally meet current efficiency standards. However, with the right improvements, these properties can be just as comfortable and cost-effective as newer builds. Upgrading insulation, improving heating controls, and maintaining your central heating system all play a crucial role in cutting down unnecessary energy waste.
Not only do these improvements save money, but they also reduce your household’s carbon footprint—an increasingly important factor for environmentally conscious residents. An energy-efficient home is also more attractive to future buyers, adding long-term value to your investment.
Take the Next Step with a Professional Central Heating Installer in Horsham
If you’re ready to transform your older home into a more energy-efficient and comfortable living space, it’s time to consult with a trusted professional. Our team of heating experts can assess your current system, recommend tailored solutions, and carry out installations or upgrades that make a real difference. Whether you need a new boiler, heating controls, or advice on insulation, we’re here to help you every step of the way.
Contact your local central heating installer in Horsham today to find out how we can make your home more energy-efficient. Visit our contact page to book a consultation or request a free, no-obligation quote.