How to make your home more energy efficient: where to start
By the GlowUpp team · 27 October 2026
BeforeAfter‹›An AI-generated example. Real results depend on your own space.
Making a home warmer and cheaper to run does not have to mean a huge project. The best results often come from tackling the biggest heat losses first.
Start with an assessment
Look at your Energy Performance Certificate, which includes recommended improvements, or ask a qualified energy assessor. It shows where your home loses most heat.
Draught-proofing
Sealing gaps around doors, windows, floors and loft hatches is usually simple, but keep the ventilation your home needs, especially in rooms with gas appliances or fires.
Insulation
- Loft insulation, if your loft is not already well insulated.
- Wall insulation, which depends on the type of walls and needs a specialist.
- Floor insulation where it is practical.
Heating and controls
Good controls, such as a programmer or smart thermostat and thermostatic radiator valves, let you heat only what you use. Boiler and heating work must be done by a registered engineer.
Windows and doors
Better glazing and doors can reduce heat loss and noise, but they are a bigger job. Compare them with cheaper steps first.
Lighting and appliances
LED bulbs and efficient appliances reduce the electricity you use.
Look for support
Government and local schemes change often. Check the official government website for what is currently available before you spend, and use installers who are registered with the relevant scheme.
Ventilation and damp
Insulating and sealing a home without planning ventilation can cause damp and condensation. Ask your installer how they will manage it.
Mistakes to avoid
- Doing the expensive jobs first.
- Blocking vents and flues.
- Believing exaggerated savings claims.
See the improvements
Upload a photo of your home to GlowUpp to see AI-generated ideas for the outside and inside. Always ask a qualified professional before moving gas, electrics or plumbing, or changing anything structural, and check your lease or local rules if you rent or live in a conservation area.
See your own exterior redesigned
Upload a photo and see AI-generated ideas in about two minutes. Free for homeowners, no sign-up needed to start.
Try it with your photoCommon questions
- What is the first thing to do to improve energy efficiency?
- Get an assessment, then tackle draughts and the biggest heat losses, often the loft, before bigger jobs.
- Do I need ventilation if I draught-proof?
- Yes. Homes need controlled ventilation, especially where there are gas appliances, to avoid damp and safety problems.
- Are there grants available?
- Schemes change. Check the official government website for what is currently available.