With energy bills still stubbornly high, it’s never been more important to ensure your conservatory is as efficient as possible.
Whether you’re yet to have your conservatory built or you have a space that is proving to be a real energy drain and you’d like to make it more efficient, you’ve come to the right place.
Here we take a look at some of the best ways to make warming and cooling your conservatory more cost-effective, saving you money by slashing those bills, while also helping you do your bit for the planet.
Choosing Energy-Efficient Glazing
The type of windows you pick can really affect how energy-efficient your conservatory is. Low-E glass is particularly beneficial as it’s coated with a microscopically thin, virtually invisible layer of metal or metallic oxide that reflects infrared heat.
This coating helps regulate indoor temperatures by reducing heat gain in warmer climates and heat loss when it’s cold.
Triple glazing is another solution, while some may want to consider self-cleaning glass as this saves time on cleaning and lets more natural light in, brightening up your conservatory.
Insulating Your Conservatory
To keep your conservatory cosy and energy-efficient, focus on good insulation. Use quality insulation materials in the roof, walls and floor to keep the warmth inside during colder months.
Opt for double-glazed, triple-glazed or Low-E windows to improve insulation, keeping your bespoke conservatory comfortable all year round.
Ventilating The Roof
To control temperature and humidity in your conservatory, proper ventilation is key. Install roof vents or automatic venting systems to let out hot air in summer and prevent condensation from accumulating in winter.
Some advanced systems even have rain sensors that automatically close when it starts raining, but state-of-the-art appliances like this can ramp up your final bill so much will depend on your budget.
Preventing Overheating With Solar Control
Stop your conservatory from getting too hot in the summer by adding solar control solutions.
External shading devices like blinds, awnings or solar reflective coatings on your glass can reduce direct sunlight, keeping it cooler on hot days which negates the need to crank up that costly air con!
Solar Panels
If you want to make your conservatory more energy-efficient, think about adding solar panels. Conservatories get a lot of sunlight, especially during the summer months, making them ideal for solar panels that can help save on energy.
Having said all that, keep in mind that they block some sunlight, so they might not be for everyone.
Underfloor Heating
Consider underfloor heating for your conservatory as it gives even warmth without taking up space like radiators. The heat from the floor also spreads more evenly and efficiently, unlike radiators where some heat is lost immediately.
So while underfloor heating may cost more in the beginning, over time you’ll recuperate this, so try to look at it as a savvy investment.
LEDs
For conservatory lighting, wherever possible try to go for energy-efficient LED lights. These use less electricity and last longer than traditional bulbs, so there are multiple reasons why they cost less.
Additionally, installing features like dimmers and motion sensors can also cut down on energy consumption, so consider these too.
Blinds And Curtains
Well-fitted blinds or curtains can help regulate temperature and keep heat from escaping. Closing them at night in winter retains heat, while in summer, they block out excessive sunlight and heat.
Choosing The Right Flooring
Your choice of flooring will have a surprisingly influential impact on your conservatory’s energy efficiency. Tiled or stone flooring, while aesthetically pleasing and hardwearing, can become cold during the winter, meaning you might be tempted to turn up your heating.
To prevent this, consider using rugs or carpets, which provide additional insulation and warmth under your feet to stop you from overindulging in your heating.
Regular Upkeep For Efficiency
Keeping your conservatory well-maintained is crucial for energy efficiency. So be sure to address any gaps, leaks or damaged seals in windows, roofs and doors promptly to avoid high energy bills.