As energy costs rise and the cold months approach, it’s more crucial than ever for landlords to ensure their properties are as energy-efficient as possible. Small, proactive steps can make a big difference, keeping tenants comfortable and protecting buildings from problematic mould and damp.
After consulting members of LandlordZONE, Utilita Energy has created a bespoke checklist that can be completed in just 60 minutes.
1. Check Window and Door Seals
Draughty windows and doors are one of the most common culprits of energy loss in properties. Conduct a quick inspection for any visible gaps around windows and doors. These gaps allow warm air to escape, making the heating system work harder. If you spot any gaps, consider adding or replacing weather stripping—a simple and cost-effective solution to improve insulation and retain heat.
2. Adjust Radiator Settings
Ensure that radiators are unobstructed by furniture or heavy curtains, which can block heat distribution. Optimising the placement around radiators helps rooms warm up efficiently and reduces strain on the heating system. Additionally, thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs) can offer better control over heating in individual rooms. Adjust the TRV settings to lower the heat in rooms that don’t require constant warmth, such as storage spaces or infrequently used rooms.
3. Bleed Radiators
Cold spots on radiators often indicate trapped air, which prevents the system from heating rooms evenly. This inefficiency can cause the boiler to work harder, increasing energy consumption. Bleeding radiators is a simple process that allows the heating system to operate more effectively. If you’re not available to do this, leaving a quick guide for tenants on how to bleed radiators can help maintain heating efficiency and extend the life of your heating system.
4. Ensure Vents and Filters are Clear
Clear ventilation is essential for good air circulation and for preventing dampness and mould buildup. Check that any extractor fans or vents are free from dust and debris, as blocked filters reduce airflow and make the heating system less efficient. Clean filters also help maintain air quality, benefiting both the tenant’s health and the property’s condition.
5. Open Any Blocked Air Vents
Blocked air vents, whether sealed by previous owners or tenants, restrict airflow and can lead to moisture buildup, which in turn forces the heating system to work harder. Make sure vents are open and unobstructed, particularly in rooms like bathrooms and kitchens. Proper ventilation is key to preventing dampness and ensuring the heating system operates efficiently.
6. Set Water Heater to an Optimal Temperature
Adjusting the boiler’s settings can have a significant impact on energy use. Setting the hot water temperature to around 50°C and the heating system to between 65°F and 70°F can achieve an optimal balance between comfort and efficiency. This setting provides comfortable heating without unnecessarily increasing energy usage. Please read this guide before making any changes to boiler settings.
7. Educate on Efficient Heating Use
Helping tenants understand how to use heating systems efficiently can prevent energy waste. For example, if your property has a thermostat with a timer function, a quick guide or note on how to set the timer can ensure heating is used only when needed. These small education efforts can make a big difference in both energy consumption and tenant comfort.
8. Look for Signs of High Humidity or Mould
Humidity issues are common during winter months, often due to indoor drying of clothes or showering without ventilation. High humidity not only causes discomfort but can also lead to mould growth, which damages walls and furnishings. Consider providing a dehumidifier if you notice signs of excessive moisture, such as condensation on windows or the beginnings of mould. Dehumidifiers can prevent damage to your property and improve indoor air quality for your tenants. A healthy humidity level should remain between 30% and 60%. Anything over 80% is creating an environment for mould growth.
These are just some of the quick actions a landlord can take. Utilita can also help eligible landlords and tenants access grant funding for energy efficiency measures such as the Great British Insulation Scheme and the Energy Company Obligation Scheme.
For more information, click the links above.
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