Improving the energy efficiency of your home can mean either making changes to the building, or simply changing your behaviour to save energy. Energy Performance Certificates will give you advice on both of these areas.

Here is a list of some of the measures that the certificate might recommend:

• Low-energy lightbulbs. These last up to 12 times longer and use around 80 per cent less energy than traditional filament bulbs
• Hot water tank jackets. These cost from around £10, and can cut heat loss by around 75 per cent
• Loft insulation. Fitting insulation that is at least 250mm thick could cut heat loss by around 30 per cent
• Cavity wall insulation. If you have unfilled cavity walls, installing insulation could cut heat loss by over 30 per cent.

The cost of the measures recommended will vary, but the certificate will distinguish between those that cost under £500 (such as those above) and those that could cost more, such as double glazing or new heating systems. The certificate will also list further measures that will help achieve the highest possible ratings for the home, but which could be expensive and will take more than seven years to repay their cost in energy savings.

Behaviour changes
There are also simple ways that you can improve your energy efficiency, simply by changing how you use your home:

• Check that your heating system thermostat isn't set too high (21 degrees C in the living room is suggested), and use the timer or programmer so you only heat your home when necessary
• Make sure your hot water isn't too hot. Your cylinder thermostat shouldn't need to be set higher than 60 degrees C/140 degrees F
• Turn off lights when they aren't needed, and don't leave appliances on standby. Remember not to leave chargers (eg for mobile phones) turned on when you aren't using them

Financial support
If you're looking to improve your home's energy efficiency and cut heating costs, see our leaflet on financial support on the publications page.

You can call the Energy Saving Trust on 0800 512 012 for free impartial advice about saving energy in your home and reducing fuel bills. You can also search their website for grants and offers.

See also on our site

What's in a Pack? > Compulsory Items > EPCs
Energy Performance Certificates are a compulsory part of the Pack

External links

Energy Performance of Buildings
Key info from the Communities and Local Government site

The Energy Saving Trust
Advice on saving energy, improving your home and accessing grants

Climate Challenge
Information on the Government's Climate Change Communication Initiative

The European Commission
Information on the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive

Green Homes Service (London only)
The Mayor of London and the London Development Agency are providing additional services from December 2007 to help you improve the energy efficiency of your home. The Green Homes Service can provide you with tailored advice and give you practical help to make the changes you want to make to your home.

Environment and Greener Living
Section about green issues on the Directgov site