Tag: electric

Advice Center

Energy Crisis 2022: Top ways to save energy in your home 

10th October 20220

We have all realised that the Uk is currently going through an energy crisis. The 2021–present global energy crisis is the most recent in a series of recurring energy shortages experienced over the last fifty years. Many households and businesses are struggling to afford the increase in prices, so here is a list of ways you can reduce the use of energy in your home.  

How did the energy crisis occur?  

In 2019-2022 the Covid-19 pandemic first caused the rapid drop in energy demand and a cut in oil production. Then the Russian invasion on Ukraine has threatened the energy supply from Russia to Europe. Russia had interrupted the Nord Stream 1 pipeline flow in early September, precipitating an international gas supply crisis which was particularly felt in European gas markets 

A few energy saving tips for your home –  

Turning off light switches –  

Firstly, turning off a light switch is one of the easiest ways to save energy. If you get in to a habit of subconsciously turning of the lights you will, see a big difference in your bills.  

Install LED lights –  

LED lights have become majorly popular recently due to the younger generation. However, this is a great trend because LED lights use about half of the energy of a halogen bulb. They also look more stylish and are more affordable.  

Turn your thermostat down – 

Almost half of the money spent on bills is taken by heating and hot water. For each degree you decrease the temperature, you can expect to cut bills by 4%. This could save you up to £80-£100 a year.  

Use less water –  

An easy way to save more water is to stop letting the tap run when you’re are not using it. For example, when you are brushing your teeth, or washing the dishes. By doing this you can save around £25 a year. By spending less time in the shower or buying a more efficient shower head can save you as much as £18 per year.  

Unplug your devices –  

Unplugging your devices rather than leaving them on stand buy can save your electricity bill.

Architecture & Building, House Renovation

An Informative Step By Step Guide To Building A New Home

4th October 20210

Looking to build a new home but don’t know where to start? this step by step guide is a perfect way to understand the process of the construction

1. Prepare the construction site 

Firstly, before any construction can happen, the local government must approve the design and provide permits. You will need these permits for everything from home construction, electrical work, plumbing, and planning. Once the permits are required, construction can begin.  

Often site preparation and foundation are performed by the same people. The crew clears the site of rocks, debris, and trees. They then level the site, put up wooden forms to serve as a template for the foundation, and dig holes and trenched. The footings are then formed and poured, as well as the foundation walls. The areas between them are levelled and fitted with plumbing drains and electrical chases; then the slab is poured. Once all of the concrete is set an inspector will visit the site to make sure the foundations are up to code and installed properly. 

2. Complete rough framing  

The floor, walls, and roof systems will all be completed. Usually, plywood sheathing is applied to the exterior walls, roof, and windows and the exterior doors are installed. It is then covered with a protective barrier known as a house wrap. This prevents liquid water from infiltrating the structure. This also reduces the likelihood of d rot.   

3. complete rough plumbing and electrical 

Once the shell is finished the roof can be installed and the following are installed: 

  • Pipes and wires 
  • Water supply lines 
  • Sewer lines and vents  
  • Bathtubs, shower units 
  • Ductwork for HVAC system 
  • HVAC vent pipes 

Once all of the things are installed you will need to have a few more inspections. 

4. install the insulation  

Insulation plays a key role in creating a more comfortable, consistent indoor climate and improving the home’s energy efficiency. The most common types of insulation used in new homes are fiberglass, cellulose, and foam. Most homes are insulated in all exterior walls, as well as the loft and floors.  

5. Complete drywall and the interior fixtures, start the exterior fixtures 

The next step is to hang the drywall and make sure it is taped so the seams are not visible. After the taping is complete the primer coat of paint is applied. Then the contractors will begin installing the external finishes such as brick and stone. 

6. finish interior trim, install driveway and walkways  

All of the interiors get completed and this includes doors, baseboards, window sills, cabinets, vanities, fireplaces, and much more. The walls get the last coats of paint and the wallpaper is applied.  

Generally, the driveway, walkways, and patios are formed at this stage.  

7. install hard surface flooring and countertops  

Ceramic tile, vinyl, and wood flooring are installed as well as the countertops.  

8. finish mechanical trims 

Light fixtures, outlets, and switches are installed and the electrical panel is complete. All of the bathroom fixtures are also installed such as sinks, toilets, baths, and showers.  

9. install finishing touches  

Mirrors, shower doors, and carpet are installed and a big final clean-up takes place. They also complete the landscaping by adding trees, grass, and shrubs  

10. The final walkthrough  

The final step is a walkthrough, your builders will show you and acquaint you with your new home, the features, and the operation of some things. This is also an opportunity to spot items that need to be corrected or adjusted. And also, to check there are no possible damages to the countertops or walls.  

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