Saving Energy in the Home

Reducing Domestic Energy Consumption

The timetable for reducing energy consumption in the City's homes was set out by the Home Energy Conservation Act of Parliament in 1996. Last year, the Council spent £1.2million improving the energy efficiency of its own housing stock and provided £100,000 to assist vulnerable people in the private sector.

How to keep warm this winter

Keeping warm efficiently saves money, our environment and lives. Westminster Council is committed to promoting the better use of energy, both in its own housing stock and for residents generally.

We also want to ensure that the elderly and vulnerable know how to keep warm and who to turn to for help.

Being energy efficient

None of us like spending money when we don't have to. But when it comes to reducing our fuel and energy bills, few of us realise how much we could save and how simply.

The big energy savers are cavity wall insulation, loft insulation and double-glazing. Together, these could cut your annual bill by between £65-£80. But don't stop there. Even those of us living in flats, older houses or listed buildings can:

• use low energy light bulbs
• put 3" insulation on the hot water tank
• switch off electrical equipment - don't leave it on standby
• draught proof letterboxes and external doors
• use draught excluders and keep curtains closed - but don't block up air vents
• avoid condensation by ventilating rooms where you boil water or dry clothes.

If you can afford it, replace boilers that are over 15 years old. You could cut your fuel bill by up to 30% by installing a gas-condensing boiler

Keep warm, keep well

Keeping warm is a vital part of keeping well during the winter. Especially for older people and the very young.

• Try to keep a constant temperature of 21ºC in the living room and 18ºC in other rooms.
• Make sure your home is well insulated.
• If you have problems paying fuel bills, talk to your electricity or gas supplier straight away.
• Have some hot food and drink every day.
• Always wrap up warmly before going out - wear hat and gloves
• Take a little exercise every day
• Keep warm in bed every night
• Seek help if you experience unusual drowsiness, slurring speech or no longer feel cold in a very cold room - these are some of the danger signs of hypothermia.

If you have a neighbour who is older or vulnerable, keep a look-out for signs that something might be wrong: milk left on the doorstep; newspapers left in the letterbox; curtains drawn in the day; lights left on or a dog barking all day.

Where to get help and advice

For up to date information and advice about energy efficiency and available grants please contact the London Energy Saving Trust Advice Centre (ESTAC) on freephone  0800 512 012.  The London ESTAC offers free, personalised and impartial advice on energy efficiency, water, waste and personal transport.