Insulation Hacks. Are they worth it?

We’ve been working on the Warm Homes campaign since it was started by Friends of the Earth HQ. This year, we are making scarves as part of the second year of the campaign. In 2024, we made a huge quilt that comes out regularly for ‘energy’ events; we’ve carried out thermal imaging for two dozen households and we’ve offered energy advice to all of them. We are pleased  that almost all householders have acted on that advice. After all, what would be the point in our doing surveys and advising if they didn’t? People have removed redundant cat flaps, insulated draughty Velux windows, added curtains to doors and far more.

It was therefore music to our ears When we heard that Greg Foot’s ‘Sliced Bread’ on BBC Radio4 featured ‘Insulation Hacks’. Someone 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? Worth listening!

If you would like a free energy survey, including thermal imaging of your home do get in touch