As winter sets in and temperatures drop, energy bills tend to rise. However, there are many ways to keep your home warm without seeing a significant spike in your heating costs. By focusing on energy-efficient heating strategies, you can reduce your energy consumption and save money while staying comfortable. Whether it’s upgrading your boiler, adjusting your heating habits, or improving insulation, a few simple changes can make a substantial difference. One of the most effective ways to cut heating costs is by ensuring your boiler is running as efficiently as possible. If your boiler is more than 10-15 years old, it might be worth considering an upgrade to a modern, energy-efficient model. Newer boilers, especially condensing ones, are designed to capture more heat and recycle it back into the system rather than letting it escape through the flue. This can result in significant energy savings, with some estimates suggesting up to 30% lower heating bills compared to older models. Regular servicing is also crucial, as a well-maintained boiler operates more efficiently and is less likely to break down. Beyond upgrading the boiler itself, using a smart thermostat is another way to save money. These devices allow you to programme your heating system according to your daily routine, ensuring you only heat your home when necessary. For instance, you can set the heating to turn off while you're at work and warm the house just before you return. Some smart thermostats even allow for remote control via a mobile app, giving you flexibility in managing your heating. According to the Energy Saving Trust, installing and properly using a programmable thermostat can reduce your annual heating costs by around 10%. Another key factor in energy-efficient heating is insulation. Heat loss through walls, roofs, and floors can cause your heating system to work harder, leading to higher bills. Properly insulating your home can prevent this and significantly reduce energy consumption. Cavity wall insulation, for instance, can cut your heating costs by up to 35%, while loft insulation can save an additional 25%. These improvements are not only cost-effective in the long run but can also increase the comfort of your home by reducing draughts and keeping the heat in for longer. Lowering the thermostat by just a degree or two can also make a noticeable difference in your heating bills without sacrificing much comfort. According to various studies, reducing your thermostat setting by 1°C can cut your heating costs by about 10%. It’s a small change that can lead to big savings over the course of a winter. Similarly, making use of the timer function on your heating system can help reduce costs. Rather than leaving the heating on all day, set it to come on just before you wake up and to turn off shortly before you leave the house or go to bed. In addition to insulation and boiler upgrades, smaller changes around the house can also contribute to energy efficiency. Simple measures like using radiator reflectors behind your radiators can help direct heat back into the room rather than allowing it to escape through walls. Similarly, keeping curtains closed at night can help trap heat, while opening them during the day allows sunlight to naturally warm your home. It’s also important to make sure your radiators aren’t obstructed by furniture, as this can block the flow of heat and make your system less efficient. Finally, adopting energy-efficient behaviours can have a long-lasting impact on your bills. Wearing warm clothing indoors and using blankets can allow you to lower the thermostat without feeling cold. Additionally, heating only the rooms you use regularly and turning off radiators in unused spaces can make a big difference. Sealing draughts around doors and windows is another simple, cost-effective way to improve your home’s energy efficiency. In conclusion, by taking steps to improve the efficiency of your heating system, insulate your home, and adopt smarter heating habits, you can enjoy a warm and comfortable winter without the shock of high energy bills. From upgrading your boiler and using a smart thermostat to improving insulation and sealing draughts, these measures will not only save you money but also reduce your carbon footprint, making them a win-win for both your wallet and the environment.

As winter approaches, it becomes crucial to ensure that your boiler is in perfect working order. A sudden breakdown during the colder months can lead to costly repairs and discomfort. Regular servicing can prevent unexpected issues, but there are specific signs that indicate your boiler may need attention sooner rather than later. Here are the top five signs your boiler requires servicing before winter: First, if your boiler starts making unusual noises, it's a clear indication that something isn't right. Boilers are typically quiet when functioning correctly, but if you begin to hear banging, whistling, or gurgling, these could point to internal issues such as trapped air, low water pressure, or even a failing pump. These sounds, especially if persistent, are a signal that the boiler is struggling to operate efficiently and could lead to more significant problems if left unchecked. A GasSafe engineer can diagnose and fix the issue before it escalates. Another sign is fluctuating or inconsistent heating. If your radiators aren't warming up evenly or your home takes longer than usual to heat, your boiler may be struggling to circulate hot water effectively. This could be due to issues like sludge build-up in the system, a faulty thermostat, or an airlock. Addressing these issues early will not only ensure your home stays warm but also help avoid higher energy bills due to inefficient heating. Additionally, if your energy bills have suddenly increased without an obvious cause, it could be a sign that your boiler is not running as efficiently as it should. An inefficient boiler will use more energy to produce the same amount of heat, leading to higher costs. Regular servicing can help identify the cause of the inefficiency, whether it’s due to wear and tear, a dirty system, or faulty components, and restore the boiler’s optimal performance. Catching this early can save you money in the long run. Water leaks around the boiler are another critical warning sign. Even a small amount of leaking water can indicate a serious issue with the system, such as corrosion, pressure problems, or a faulty valve. Not only can leaks cause damage to your home, but they can also lead to a full boiler breakdown if ignored. A technician can trace the source of the leak and fix the underlying problem, preventing further damage and ensuring the boiler remains safe to use. Lastly, if you notice an irregular or yellow flame in your boiler, this could signal a dangerous issue. Normally, the flame should be blue. A yellow or flickering flame may indicate that the boiler is not burning fuel properly, which can result in the production of carbon monoxide – a dangerous, odourless gas. This is a serious health hazard, and immediate action is needed if you see this sign. Alongside this, if your carbon monoxide alarm goes off, you should switch off the boiler and contact a GasSafe engineer immediately. Regular servicing ensures that the boiler’s combustion process remains safe and efficient, reducing the risk of harmful emissions. In conclusion, paying attention to these signs can help you catch problems early and avoid the discomfort and inconvenience of a boiler breakdown during the coldest months of the year. A boiler that is making strange noises, struggling to heat your home, increasing your energy bills, leaking water, or displaying an irregular flame needs professional attention. By servicing your boiler before winter, you can ensure your system is safe, efficient, and ready to keep your home warm throughout the colder months.

Choosing the right boiler for your home can seem overwhelming with so many options available, but it doesn't have to be. The key is to understand your needs and match them with the right type of boiler. This guide will help you navigate the process, ensuring you make an informed decision that balances efficiency, cost, and the specific demands of your household.  The first thing to consider is the size of your home. Larger homes with multiple bathrooms will likely need a boiler that can handle a higher demand for hot water. A combi boiler, for instance, is a great choice for smaller homes or flats where space is at a premium and the demand for hot water is moderate. It combines both a water heater and central heating system into one, eliminating the need for a separate water tank. However, for larger homes, a system boiler might be a better option. This type stores hot water in a cylinder, ensuring that multiple taps and showers can be used simultaneously without affecting water pressure. If your home is particularly large, you might even need a conventional boiler, which uses both a water cylinder and a cold-water tank to meet higher demands. Next, it’s essential to consider the energy efficiency of the boiler. Modern boilers are significantly more efficient than older models, with many achieving over 90% efficiency. This means they convert almost all the energy they use into heat, which can lead to substantial savings on your energy bills. A new, high-efficiency boiler can pay for itself over time in the form of reduced heating costs. Look for models with an A-rating for efficiency, which indicates they meet the highest standards. Many boilers also come with built-in energy-saving features, such as programmable thermostats or smart controls that allow you to heat your home more effectively. Cost is another crucial factor. While the initial price of a boiler can vary widely depending on the brand and type, it's important to think long-term. More expensive boilers often come with longer warranties and higher energy efficiency, which can save you money over time. It's also worth considering the cost of installation. Some boilers are easier and cheaper to install than others, and if you’re switching from one type of boiler to another, this could increase your installation costs. It’s wise to get a few quotes from reputable installers to ensure you’re getting the best deal. When choosing a boiler, the quality of aftercare and support provided by the manufacturer or installer is vital. Boilers require regular maintenance to run efficiently, so it’s important to consider the availability of servicing and whether the manufacturer offers a reliable warranty. Some companies offer extended warranties for an additional cost, which can provide peace of mind, particularly if you’re investing in a higher-end model. Environmental impact is another consideration. If you’re looking to reduce your carbon footprint, some boilers are more environmentally friendly than others. Condensing boilers, for example, are designed to be more energy-efficient by capturing and recycling heat that would otherwise be lost. This not only reduces energy consumption but also lowers emissions. You might also want to explore renewable options, such as solar water heaters, which can work in conjunction with your boiler to further reduce energy usage. Finally, think about future-proofing your home. The heating industry is moving towards greener solutions as governments push for lower carbon emissions. Investing in a boiler that is compatible with renewable energy sources, such as solar panels or heat pumps, could be a smart move. While these technologies may require a larger upfront investment, they could save you money in the long run and increase the value of your property. In conclusion, choosing the right boiler for your home involves balancing your immediate needs with future considerations. It’s important to select a boiler that is the right size for your home, offers good energy efficiency, and falls within your budget. While the decision can seem daunting, consulting with experts like those at Sunrealm Heating can make the process much easier. They can assess your home’s specific requirements and recommend the most suitable boiler for your situation, ensuring you stay warm and energy-efficient throughout the year.

Improving energy efficiency in flats, rented accommodation and office blocks poses particular challenges for landlords, local authorities and housing associations even though they are known to be significant areas of need. The many different ways that we own accommodation in the UK is the reason it is so difficultm to make solid and consistent improvement to flats and multi-owner accommodation. However the fast-moving global agenda to cut energy carbon emissions means all landlords, local authorities and housing associations have a pressing duty to ensure their properties are as energy efficient as possible. Indeed, with the minimum requirement for the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) currently at E and set to rise to D from 2025, the situation is unavoidable. Although it is always a challenge to undertake works on a multi-occupancy property, it is useful to remember that this is about energy efficiency so any improvements will result in lower energy bills and better functioning equipment designed to last longer. In today’s property market, eco-friendly improvements are always appealing so any costs should be offset against the increased value of the property. However, it is important to keep realistic market value at the forefront of your mind and ensure spending will deliver a return on investment. Here are 4 key ways you can improve the energy efficiency of your flats, residential accommodation or office block: 1. Review energy use: It is easy to think about what you could add to the property, however there is also much you can achieve by reviewing your current energy use. Identifying areas of waste can go a long way to cutting your carbon footprint. Assess the efficiency of the current heating system/s you have in place. Is it the most efficient way to heat the property? When did you last really look at your bills and usage? For example, lots of landlords, housing associations and local authorities are choosing to install communal heating to save energy across the building whilst slashing the cost of energy bills for tenants. Remember newer heating systems operate at much better energy efficiency levels so hanging on to an old heating system will be costing you more in the long run and may well hinder the advantages of any improvements you make elsewhere. 2. Smart devices: Technology has bought us many economies and the heating industry is no different. From thermostats to heating controls, apps on the go, thermostat controls and smart devices, there are a huge number of ways to harness smart technology in your quest to cut your carbon footprint and decrease your energy use. Upgrading devices and installing new technology is easier than ever so don’t let disruption to tenants put you off improving the ways your manage energy in your property. Experienced heating companies for the housing sector can have your upgrades installed and running properly in no time although you should ensure any new energy solution is tailored to suit your property. 3. Insulation: Heat can be lost in so many ways so it is really important to include the quality of the insulation in the property during your review. Inadequate window glazing, improvements to wall insulation, underfloor insulation, loft or ceiling insulation and better duct insulation are just some of the many ways you can ensure energy stays in the property. 4. Contemporary heating systems: From renewable technologies to systems that perform multiple functions, there are now a huge variety of ways to heat your property – all offering fantastic, cost-saving benefits too. Underfloor heating, thermal energy stores, water source heat pumps, waste water heat recovery devices attached to showers, ground source heat pumps and solar water heating are just some of the many contemporary heating solutions on the market. Thermal energy stores for example, can keep heat stored for long periods of time through a range of means so you are not constantly heating water and using up energy. Whatever the changes you choose to make, ensure they are bespoke, quality solutions, guaranteed to have a significant impact on your tenants energy use across the board. If you would like to discuss the best solutions for your residential or commercial property blocks in Luton, Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire, Buckinghamshire or Northants, speak to one of our experienced engineers today. To discover the current status of your energy use, use the Energy Saving Trust’s energy calculator to discover how energy efficient your home is at present and hear which energy saving solutions might work well in your property. The Energy Saving Trust are an independent organisation with a mission to provide practical help and support to homes and businesses who want to do their bit to address climate change. They have lots of information on their site and are a leading voice in the energy industry, promoting energy efficiency and clean energy solutions. Find out more at energysavingtrust.org.uk Energy Saving Heating Solutions, Luton We are expert heating engineers based in Luton. We work for local authorities, housing associations and landlords of flats, offices and residential accommodation across Luton, Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire, Buckinghamshire and Northants. If you are looking for energy saving solutions for residential or commercial properties in Luton or another part of Southern England, or would like to book a service, installation or repair, get in touch with our experienced team today. Call 01582 571 925 today or visit our home page now.

If you manage a residential or commercial property you may be considering whether you should install a communal heating system in your building. Communal heating systems, also known as district heat networks, are preferred by manylandlords, local authorities, businesses and housing associations across Southern England. Delivering numerous economical and environmental advantages for your business, communal heating systems are a great way to make valuable savings whilst aiding the environment. If you are thinking about getting a communal heating system installed in flats, a residential property or an office, read on for the top reasons why so many landlords prefer communal heating systems as well as a quick guide to the main things you should know before getting a communal heating system installed. Why install communal heating? A quick guide to communal heating: 1. Cheaper: Communal heating systems are designed to make it easier for both landlords and tenants to manage and monitor usage so you’ll quickly notice how much cheaper it is to heat your flats or office. Communal heating systems use accurate meters to ensure residents only pay for the heating they use. If your property doesn’t already have individual meters installed in each flat, you’ll need to have them put in so that tenants are able to retain personal control over their own heating. See point 5 detailing the terms and conditions for the installation of a communal heating system for more about meters and other options. By only using one system for the heating and hot water across the property rather than individual boilers located in each flat, you’ll find less energy is used, reducing the cost of bills. Additionally, you will now only have to pay to service and maintain one heating system instead of lots of boilers, saving you plenty of money on annual services, maintenance and administration. 2. More efficient: With all the heating and hot water for the property co-ordinated from one location it is much easier to manage and maintain the heating supply throughout your flats or office. Reducing the amount of time, energy and money you need to spend on the upkeep of your heating, a communal system will make it possible for you to only have to monitor and maintain a single system. You won’t have to waste valuable time overseeing different systems in various locations all over the building, with varying degrees of function. Your single solution will make servicing, maintenance and supervision quick, simple and efficient. Built for robust use, communal heating systems are known to last a decade longer than individual boilers so you’ll get better value for your money long term too. 3. Energy saving: Your shared heating system will be designed to operate with the highest efficiency. District heat networks are contemporary, specially built devices, designed to ensure your energy use is optimised and your carbon emissions are reduced. Accurate billing and up to date information about energy use are key requirements in the operation of communal heating systems. It is a legal requirement for landlords with communal heating systems to regularly send accurate bill and insightful information about energy use. With a clear and current picture of their own energy use, tenants will be better able to manage, track and adjust their usage to ensure energy isn’t going to waste, making your heating solution more environmentally friendly. 4. Maintenance: With all residents relying on the same system, regular maintenance and servicing of your communal heating system is really important. Any fault or worse still, system breakdown, will affect all your tenants at the same time so it is crucial that your communal heating system is kept in excellent condition by ensuring you keep up with service schedules and any faults are reported quickly. It is also advisable to check your buildings insurance will fully cover you, just in case there is ever any problem related to the shared heating system. 5. Terms: Under the terms of the 2014 Heat Network (Metering and Billing) Regulations there are certain criteria that need to be met before you can have communal heating installed in your flats or office. The purpose of the Heat Network (Metering and Billing) Regulations is to ensure all billing and usage resulting from the communal heating system are transparent and correct for both tenant and landlord. The regulations also guarantee tenants are able to retain sufficient control over their own heating use when the district heating network is installed. The Heat Network Regulations are managed by the UK National Measurement and Regulation Office (NMRO). You will need to meet the following conditions and notify the NMRO before you can have a communal heating system installed. Conditions landlords must meet for installation of communal heating/ a district heating network: Have at least two paying tenants living in the property who each heat their own living space. Check whether meters with their own separate controls will need to be installed in each flat so that tenants can adequately manage their own heating use. You may need to use thermostatic radiator valves or heat cost allocators if personal meters are not appropriate for your setting or prove too expensive. Ensure all heating bills are based on actual usage rather than estimated calculations. These bills must be sent to tenants at least once a year. Bills must also be accompanied by useful billing information which must be received by tenants every six months or more. Are you thinking about getting a communal heating system installed? We install, service and repair communal heating systems for local authorities, housing associations and landlords of flats, offices and residential accommodation across Luton, Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire, Buckinghamshire and Northants. If you are looking for expert heating engineers in Luton or Southern England to install or repair your communal heating system, get in touch with our experienced team today. Call 01582 571 925 today or visit our home page now.

Landlord Gas Safety Checks – all you need to know If you are a UK landlord, you have a legal duty to carry out an annual gas safety check to prove the property is safe to rent. The annual landlord gas safety check is evidenced with the issuing of a gas safety certificate, sometimes called a landlord gas safety record or a CP12. Whether you are a local authority, housing association, charity or a private landlord, the gas safety check is a legal requirement for all landlords under the 1998 Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations, even if you only have a lodger. Gas safety checks for local authorities & housing associations You will need to provide a copy of the gas safety certificate to tenants and adhere to a number of other requirements. Here’s a quick and easy guide with all you need to know about gas safety checks for UK landlords: Landlord Gas Safety Checks- all you need to know: How do I get a gas safety check? You will need to book a Gas Safe engineer to carry out an inspection of every single gas appliance in the property, as well as any pipework, chimneys and flues. This inspection is a legal obligation for all landlords and can only be administered by a Gas Safe engineer. Recommended Gas Safe engineers in Luton, Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire, Buckinghamshire and Northants Following the gas safety check, you will be issued with your gas safety certificate which is also known as a CP12. You’ll need to show this certificate to tenants to prove you have carried out your legal duties and the property is safe. One of the most important details of the process, is that you must ensure you give your tenants a copy of the gas safety certificate no more than 28 days after you receive it. You will also need to keep the original copy of the certificate for the next two years or more. What will the Gas Safe engineer check during the inspection? Your Gas Safe engineer will need to check every gas appliance you have at the property. As a landlord, you are not legally liable for any gas equipment owned by your tenant but you are responsible for the gas pipework. As a result, you may decide to include your tenant’s belongings in the inspection to ensure everything is checked thoroughly. Your engineer will assess things like: gas tightness, gas pressure, ventilation, the safe removal of combustion, safety mechanisms and more. You could also ask your Gas Safe engineer to check your pipework. It is not officially part of the gas safety check but you are liable for the gas pipework in your property so you may also wish to have it checked during the visit although it is best to have this agreed in advance. How often do I need to get a landlord gas safety check? Under UK law, your landlord gas safety check must be carried out every year. How much can I expect a landlord gas safety check cost? As with any work on your property, you will need to obtain a few quotes from experienced Gas Safe engineers before you decide what you are prepared to pay for the inspection. It is helpful to note that some gas companies base their prices on the quantity of gas equipment the inspection will include. If you have numerous hobs or boilers in your property, you can expect to pay more for an inspection from gas companies who price the job in this way. What must I provide to tenants by law following a gas safety check? You will need to keep the original gas safety certificate for your own records and give a copy to your tenants. Your gas safety record is a legal document so it is important to check it includes all the necessary information when you receive it from your engineer. The certificate should be signed, include the following and all text must be clearly legible: - The full name and Gas Safe registration number of your engineer. - The date the inspection was completed. - Your full name and address. - The address of the property. - The outcome of all the checks made on your appliances. - The location and description of all appliance and flues checked. - Any safety issues identified and the actions you must take to fix them. In addition to a copy of the gas safety certificate, you will also need to obtain an energy performance certificate, retain proof of 5-yearly inspections of electrics, maintain smoke and carbon monoxide alarms and more. Read the Government Guide to Renting For Landlords for further information. What is a gas safety record? A gas safety record is the same as a landlord gas safety certificate. The term gas safety record tends to be used in more official capacities. What is a building regulations compliance certificate? A building regulations compliance certificate is different to a gas safety certificate. Building regulations compliance certificates are given if a Gas Safe engineer installs a gas heating system in a property that is subject to building regulation approval by the local authority. Unless your building works need to be approved by the local authority, you won’t need one. We are expert, Gas Safe heating engineers based in Luton. We work for local authorities, housing associations and landlords of flats, offices and residential accommodation across Luton, Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire, Buckinghamshire and Northants. If you are looking for a Gas Safe heating engineer in Luton or another part of Southern England to carry out your gas safety check, a service, installation or repair, get in touch with our experienced team today. Call 01582 571 925 today or visit our home page now.