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Insulate Your Home
What
When your home has good quality loft insulation you can dramatically reduce your carbon pollution. Not only that, you’ll be warmer in the winter, cooler in the summer and save some money, too.
Why
If your home has no loft insulation, you are losing up to 25% of heating energy through the roof. That’s a big waste of energy and money - insulating your home can reduce your carbon pollution by up to 1000kg.
Insulating your home has other benefits too. It is inexpensive and saves money - the reduction in your energy bill normally means you will cover the cost of insulation within a couple of years, and you’ll continue to save money as long as you have it. It can also help regulate temperatures across your home, avoiding chilly rooms and keeping the temperature cool in the summer and warm in the winter.
How
Most countries have a recommended insulation depth of around 250-270mm, depending on the country and insulation material. Research online to find out yours and then compare with what is currently installed in your loft.
Many people decide to install their own loft insulation. If you do, ensure that you use an approved material that has been properly tested and is safe to use in your loft. If your loft is damp or hard to access, your roof is flat, or you simply don’t feel confident with DIY, you may want to seek professional help. If this is the case, look for a national association to help you find a registered installer in your area.
Finally, remember to check with your energy supplier - they might subsidize or even pay for your insulation to help them cover their carbon emissions targets.
References
Loft insulation can save up to 1000kg of carbon pollution:
Energy Savings Trust
Step impact calculations:
Energy Saving Trust (2019), Home Insulation: Roof and loft.
Figures based on average savings for houses of various types in Great Britain.