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Greener houses can save
08/07/09
A recent survey by Mintel found that 25% of people would like to lead greener lifestyles but say they cannot afford it. However, new research from Which? Money shows that green houses can actually save their owners hundreds of pounds a year. Which? Money editor Martyn Hocking wrote in the Manchester Evening News that replacing an old boiler that works at between 55% and 75% efficiency with a condensing boiler that achieves 90% efficiency could save between £160 and £360 on annual heating bills.
Those looking for a quick return on their home improvements could also add a heating programmer, room thermostats and thermostatic radiators, which cost around £200 to install but knock about £105 a year off fuel costs.
Home owners renovating their bathrooms could save by choosing a dual flush toilet, which will use around six litres of water per flush compared to 13 litres with a traditional loo.
In the garden, a rainwater butt will provide a free source of water for the garden, while food waste bins can produce a "free supply of nutrient-rich compost", Mr Hocking said.
Which? Money is an independent source of consumer information on issues relating to personal finance.
