The most effective energy savings are designed in, not bolted on.
1. Orientation
Put living spaces and most glazing to the south and shade it with roof overhangs.
2. Insulation and airtightness
A continuous, airtight envelope does more than any heating system.
3. Heat pumps
An air- or ground-source heat pump uses a third of the energy of a gas boiler.
4. Thermal mass
Concrete or stone floors store winter sun and release it at night.
5. Fewer, better windows
Triple glazing in the right places beats glass everywhere.
