WEEAC
Gas central heating is one of the most common forms of heating supplied to our homes. The way we heat our homes in the UK does vary significantly but since the switch over from town gas to north sea gas in 1964 it has been one of the cheapest ways to heat our homes.
In 1996 however, the North Sea gas supply peaked and although there is a marginal supply still being produced, the UK is actually now a major importer of gas. For the UK this means that we are reliant on other countries for the main source of power from which to heat our homes.
Gas fired boilers use the heat from ignited gas to heat the water running through the boiler; this then travels around your radiators and into your hot water cylinder and pipe system.
One of the most positive aspects to renewable energy is that the UK is very well placed to once again become self sufficient in term of its energy supply to homes in the UK. However our renewables are mostly generating electricity, so our dependency on gas is here to stay for some time yet.
With the recent rises in fuel prices across the globe, gas prices will continue to rise and the UK will see significant increases to household bills. If the UK succeeds in becoming the market leader in renewable energy it is likely that electricity will eventually become cheaper than gas.
So until we find a cheaper alternative to imported gas, UK homes will pay more and more for its supply. However, there are things each household can do to become more energy efficient and use less gas which will help to reduce the monthly or quarterly bills.
One
If you can't afford a new high efficiency boiler, get your existing boiler serviced - regularly. Unless you are in rented accommodation, servicing your boiler may only happen when something goes wrong.
Two
Only have the heating on when there are people in the house.
Three
If you can wear a jumper or take a quick shower rather than switch on the heating, do this first.
Four
Install a wood burning stove and heat the home using a carbon neutral fuel
Five
Turn down your thermostat; 1 degree can make a £40 difference to your bill. Some people need to maintain a higher room temperature for their health.
Six
Only heat rooms you need to. For example the kitchen and bathroom are usually quite warm and may not need additional heating.
Seven
Install solar powered heating panels and generate most of your own hot water needs
Eight
Insulate your home - everywhere
Nine
Get rid of the draughts, particularly around windows and doors
Ten
Put thermal lining behind your curtains and close them at dusk
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