Improving energy efficiency and embracing sustainable practices is more important than ever. At Hafod, we are dedicated to supporting the transition towards more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly homes.
This page highlights a range of practical solutions designed to reduce energy consumption and lower carbon footprints. Explore the various measures available to improve sustainability, reduce energy costs, and contribute to a greener future. These solutions are designed to make a positive impact on both the environment and your energy bills.
Door undercuts
Door undercuts are the gaps or spaces found at the bottom of a door. When installing the door, gaps are intentionally left to allow air to flow between rooms for ventilation. This air flow helps reduce the risk of condensation, damp and mould.
External wall insulation or also known as EWI
External wall insulation is a layer of insulating material added to the outside of a building's walls to keep heat in during the winter and out during the summer.
It acts like a blanket around the house, improving energy efficiency and making it warmer and more comfortable inside. The insulation is usually covered with a protective finish, like plaster or cladding, to make it look pleasant and protect it from weather.
Loft insulation
Loft insulation is material placed in the attic or loft of a house to help keep the warmth inside, acting like a blanket, stopping warmth from escaping through the roof in the winter and cooler in the summer. Having it is important as you can lose up to 25% of the heat in your home through the roof without the correct insulation. This insulation also makes your home more energy-efficient, helping you save on heating and cooling bills while also making your living space more comfortable.
Did you know that storing items on top of the insulation compresses it, leading to potential heat loss?
Solar panels
What are solar panels?
Properties rooftops are commonly used to install solar panels, which convert sunlight into electricity for powering homes. The panels work during the day when there is sunlight. They do not need direct sunlight to work and can even work on cloudy days. The stronger the sunshine, the more electricity generated.
What else is installed?
An inverter will be installed in your loft space. This turns the solar energy produced from the panels into electricity suitable for your home. We will also fit bird mesh around the panels to prevent birds from gathering on the roof.
Why are solar panels so good?
You can use the free electricity produced by the solar panels around your home. It is worth trying to Stagger the use of large appliances where possible to make the use of this free electric.
They can help save you money
You use the electricity produced from the solar panels in your home first which can save you money. This means that you should buy less electricity from your energy provider. We will let you know the largest kwh your Solar Panels will produce on a sunny day, so you have an idea of how much electric it produces. It is important to note that utility prices and electricity use go up and down and Hafod have no control over this.
It is a renewable source
Solar panels generate low-carbon renewable energy. This means it comes from a natural source and does not create greenhouse gas emissions that are harmful to our environment.
To find out more, visit: Solar panels: a comprehensive guide - Energy Saving Trust
Environmental sensors
The sensors are small devices and will be fitted in your bathroom, kitchen and lounge. They are wireless so there are no cables leading to each sensor.
They check the inside of your home and look at carbon dioxide levels, temperature, and humidity which can lead to problems such as condensation, damp and mould.
We will also fit a Gateway Hub. This will be directly wired into your fuse box. The Gateway Hub collects information from your alarms and environmental sensors and provides Hafod with insights that will help to keep your home healthy and safe.
Is there a cost for using these sensors?
The product and service are completely free to use, however the gateway hub uses a small amount of electricity to run, whilst the sensor devices are battery powered. This is approximately £4.00 per year on average, however if we are putting in energy efficiency measures, the cost will be more than covered.