How to Save Energy

Windows

Installing energy efficient glazing will help reduce heat loss in your home. If your home has single glazing, metal frame windows or double-glazing installed prior to 1990 then replacing these with new double or triple glazing will provide significant energy savings.

Replacing reasonably well performing double-glazed windows is not advised as the energy saving benefits do not outweigh the additional cost. If some panes in your double-glazing are misted, it means the seal inside the two panes has failed and the windowpane is no longer providing insulation. Check with an installer if you can replace failed panes rather than the whole window to save costs. 

Secondary glazing is an alternative option for homes where new double or triple glazing is not possible (for example, traditional buildings of heritage value). Secondary glazing is placed on the inside of a window opening and creates a vacuum between the windows which can achieve up to a 60% reduction in heat loss. 

When your windows are replaced, it is vital to make sure the building remains well-ventilated as new windows and doors will contribute to improving the air tightness of your home. New double glazing is required to have trickle vents and you should keep these open where possible to allow fresh air into your home and moist, stale air to escape. 

Doors 

Installing high thermal performance doors will help reduce heat loss in your home. Older doors tend to have little insulative properties and can be very draughty. New external doors typically contain insulation to reduce heat loss and comply with current Building Regulations. Doors which are Passivhaus-certified will achieve the highest standard of thermal performance.

Windows and Doors - Conservation Areas and Listed Buildings 

If you live in a conservation area, it is expected that any changes to the exterior of your home continue to preserve or enhance the character of the area. This means that any new windows and doors should complement the character of the building and area.

You can find our more about windows and doors on the Energy Saving Trust's website.

Kingston Retrofit Guidance for Households

To read more information about all these measures, Kingston Council has developed a Retrofit Guidance for Households to provide information on energy efficiency improvements which can help to reduce energy bills.