What is retrofit?
Home Retrofit is the term used to describe any work done to improve the energy efficiency of an existing building. This work is often to make it easier to heat or to reduce heat loss. It often includes upgrading to renewable technology too.
Why should I consider retrofitting my home?
In Scotland, we have a target to reach Net Zero by 2045. As a nation, a large proportion of our carbon emissions come from powering and heating our homes.
One of the best ways to save money on our bills is to reduce the energy we use. Retrofitting our homes can play a huge part in that.
There’s also the added benefit of having homes that are more comfortable and healthier to live in. An energy-efficient home is warmer and has fewer issues with condensation and dampness.
What would a retrofitted home look like?
Various measures and technologies can be installed in a home to bring it up to a high energy efficiency standard. Retrofit professionals should take a ‘whole house’ approach.
This is where they look at the fabric (walls, lofts, floors) and systems (heating, hot water, lighting). Each home is different so the right solution for each property will vary according to its shape, size and condition.
Fabric
You can retrofit the fabric of your home in several ways. The aim is to minimise heating loss and maximise airtightness.
Insulating your roof by installing loft insulation is often a simple ‘quick-win’ that a retrofit professional can take as part of the process.
You could also consider insulating cavities in walls or fitting external or internal wall insulation to solid walls.
Heating and Renewable Systems
Upgrading heat and hot water systems can drastically improve a home’s energy efficiency. Often this will involve moving away from fossil-fuelled appliances such as gas or oil boilers and installing alternatives. These could include heat pumps, high heat-retention storage heaters, biomass systems, or a district heat network connection.
You can install other renewable technologies, such as solar photovoltaic or solar thermal panels and energy storage systems such as a battery.
Are funding or grants available to help?
Yes. Both the UK and Scottish Governments are committed to improving the energy efficiency of our homes. We recommend speaking to our friends at Home Energy Scotland to assess whether financial support is available.
You can also find information on what grants and funding are currently available in our funding and grants guide.
Support from Cosy Kingdom
Do you want more advice on retrofitting your home? Cosy Kingdom is a free and impartial energy advice service available to everyone living within Fife.
Our energy advisors can be contacted by:
- Calling 01592 807930
- Texting COSY then YOUR NAME to 88440
- Emailing info@cosykingdom.org.uk
- Request advice online