Energy Saving Upgrades
John Cridland Underfloor heating (UFH) has moved well beyond the new-build show home. Once seen as a luxury reserved for architect-designed extensions, it’s now a genuinely mainstream option for retrofits too, driven largely by the same efficiency pressures reshaping the rest of UK home heating. If you’re weighing up UFH against radiators or wondering whether your existing … Read more
Radiators are the part of your heating system you see every day, but they’re often the last thing homeowners think about until a room won’t heat up properly or a renovation calls for a style refresh. Whether you’re replacing a tired panel radiator or planning a full reheat of your home around a new boiler … Read more
Electric boilers are gaining attention as an alternative to gas, particularly in homes without a gas connection. But are they actually a good choice? Here’s an honest look at running costs, suitability, installation, and what grant support (if any) is available. How they work An electric boiler heats water using an electric element rather than … Read more
Ground source heat pumps (GSHPs) are one of the most efficient ways to heat a home, but they’re also one of the least understood. This guide breaks down how they work, what they cost, and whether one might suit your property — in plain language, without the sales pitch. What Is a Ground-Source Heat Pump? … Read more
Getting piping hot water straight from the tap used to sound like something out of a sci-fi movie, but it’s now one of my favourite features in a modern kitchen. Instant hot water taps are handy for quick cups of tea, speedy meal prep, and even cutting down on clutter from kettles. I’ll break down … Read more
If your home never quite feels warm enough, or your energy bills keep creeping up despite no change in how you use your heating, it might not be your fault; it might be your system. Heating equipment doesn’t fail overnight. It degrades gradually, and most homeowners don’t notice the warning signs until they’re stuck with … Read more
Insulating your home is one of the most effective ways to improve energy efficiency, reduce heating costs, and enhance comfort. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the options available in the UK. More people are paying attention to energy-efficient home insulation these days. Not only does it keep the chill out, but it … Read more
A quick-reference guide to what’s available, what it costs, and what’s currently funded. Insulation options available in the UK Loft/roof insulation — mineral wool laid between and over joists (or PIR boards/spray foam at rafter level for converted lofts) Cavity wall insulation — injected mineral wool, bonded bead, or foam through drilled holes in the … Read more
When you have decided to go ahead with your installation, you can expect the following steps: Survey & heat loss calculation – An MCS-certified installer assesses your home’s insulation, radiators, and heat demand to size the system correctly (undersizing or oversizing is the most common cause of disappointing performance). BUS grant application – If eligible, … Read more
If you’ve been researching air source heat pumps, you’ve probably come across the term “buffer tank” and wondered whether you actually need one. It’s a good question; a buffer tank isn’t something most homeowners have ever had to think about with a gas boiler, and installers don’t always agree on when one is required. This … Read more