Join listener Robin Brown, who is eager to find budget-friendly insulation for his old Victorian house, and David Farmer, a research fellow from the University of Salford, as they dive into practical home hacks. They explore cost-effective solutions like plastic sheeting, radiator foil, and thick curtains. Discover how these methods can keep the cold out and save on energy bills. With insights from the innovative Energy House project, this conversation is packed with tips for cozying up your home without breaking the bank!
DIY insulation hacks such as plastic sheeting and draft-proofing significantly reduce heat loss and energy bills in older homes.
Expert evaluations reveal that while some marketed thermal products are ineffective, simple solutions like thick curtains can enhance energy efficiency.
Deep dives
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Insulation Hacks for Energy Efficiency
The podcast discusses various DIY insulation hacks that can help homeowners improve energy efficiency in their houses, particularly for older homes with single-glazed windows and poor insulation. Practical solutions recommended include using plastic sheeting on windows, weather strips on door frames, and foil insulation behind radiators. These methods aim to reduce heat loss, ultimately leading to lower energy bills, which can be considerable for families living in drafty homes. The importance of these hacks is underscored by personal anecdotes from listeners sharing their own experiences and savings.
Assessing the Effectiveness of Insulation Methods
The discussion includes input from experts who emphasize the significance of maintaining a balance between insulation and proper ventilation to avoid moisture-related issues. Research reveals that uninsulated walls are substantial heat loss areas, accounting for a significant portion of heating expenses. Recommendations include cost-effective measures such as draft-proofing strips, which have demonstrated considerable reductions in heat loss and improved indoor comfort. The conversation highlights the practicalities and effectiveness of various methods, with detailed explanations of their potential benefits and limitations.
Comparative Insights on Thermal Products
Experts critically evaluate different thermal products, like thermal wallpaper and paints, suggesting they may not be as effective or cost-efficient as marketed. For instance, thermal paints were found to provide no better insulation than regular paints, leading to the conclusion that they represent more of a marketing gimmick than a genuine solution. In contrast, simple measures like adding thick curtains or utilizing draft excluders showed promise in enhancing energy retention, often in practical, cost-effective ways. The discussion concludes that while high-level insulation solutions exist, many homeowners might benefit significantly from these incremental, low-cost improvements.
With winter setting in listener Robin got in touch with Sliced Bread to find out if there's a way he can insulate his very old, very cold Victorian house on a budget. He's seen plastic films that go over the windows and silver foil-type backings that go behind the radiators. Do any of them work to keep the cold out and more of that precious heat in? And what about other solutions like thick curtains or blinds - can they be effective?
Greg is joined in the studio by listener Robin and expert David Farmer from the Energy House in Salford - a bespoke replica terraced house built in a warehouse which can recreate a range of weather conditions, from snowstorms to balmy summer days!
And as always, all of our investigations start with YOUR suggestions. If you’ve seen an ad, trend or wonder product promising to make you happier, healthier or greener, email us at sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk OR send a voice note to our WhatsApp number, 07543 306807.
PRESENTER: GREG FOOT
PRODUCER: SIMON HOBAN
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