Insulation – alleviating the pressure from energy price rises

Date published: 08/01/2008

With fresh reports of over six million UK householders facing energy price hikes of up to 17% and winter temperatures plummeting, concern has never been higher for the millions of people who find it difficult to pay their winter fuel bills each year. 

There is, however, one measure that can be taken by the majority of households that will certainly alleviate the pressure of continued fuel price rises; the installation of effective insulation such as Cavity Wall and Loft insulation.

The National Insulation Association (NIA) urges householders to look into having insulation installed without delay as energy prices are expected to rise still further.

Each year the issue of household energy bills is highlighted by the media with the public being advised of many different methods to lower their bills. Methods such as wrapping up warm, turning the thermostat down a degree or two, or even boiling less water in a kettle are often quoted but these behavioural measures can be short-lived and their effectiveness soon wears off.

The physical measure of insulating the house correctly however, is a one-off exercise which once done can be forgotten and lower fuel bills enjoyed immediately, not to mention the positive effect it will have on ones carbon footprint. 

Some people shy away from insulation whether cavity wall, loft, roof or other methods not realising how cost-effective such measures are and that these measures will pay for themselves within a few short years and then the benefits can be enjoyed every year after that. 

It is important that the public is aware of where to go for the best advice. The NIA has a full body of members that cover the United Kingdom. Members of the NIA are bound by strict codes of practice and guarantees that will ensure that insulation is carried out both safely and professionally.   Your local installer can also inform you of any grants which are available in your area. 

Members of the public can find out more about the NIA, and how to find their nearest NIA installer by visiting their web site at:

• www.nationalinsulationassociation.org.uk