46 BEECHTREES, DIGMOOR

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Based on this property's recorded characteristics, this 42m² 1970s flat has a current EPC rating of E40 and its recorded heating. HotAndCold estimates a space-heating requirement of approximately 2.5–3.5kW. This property's recorded energy efficiency is comparatively low. Its modelled space-heating intensity per square metre is relatively low.

Hot&Cold snapshot

What stands out about this home

How this home compares locally

Based on 56 EPC-recorded properties nearby.

Built form

Flat

Internal area (EPC)

42 m²

Building footprint

~411 m²

Approx. dimensions

~48.9 × 12.6 m

Main building axis

E–W

Estimated floors

1

Nearest building

18.6 m

Footprint & dimensions derived from Overture Maps building data (ODbL). Approximate, not survey-grade.

How this home is constructed & heated

Recorded on its Energy Performance Certificate.

Walls

System built, as built, partial insulation (assumed)

Roof

Pitched, 25 mm loft insulation

Windows

Fully double glazed

Main heating

Room heaters, electric

Heating controls

Appliance thermostats

Hot water

Electric immersion, off-peak

Floor

(another dwelling below)

Energy improvement potential

Recommended improvements for this property

Measures from this home’s official Energy Performance Certificate assessment that could raise its rating and cut running costs, specific to 46 BEECHTREES, DIGMOOR, SKELMERSDALE, WN8 9HB.

1. 1
   High heat retention storage heatersIndicative cost: £800 - £1,200

   Modern storage heaters are less expensive to run than the direct acting, on-peak heating system in the property. A dual-rate electricity supply is required to provide the off-peak electricity that these heaters use; this is easily obtained by contacting the energy supplier. Ask for a quotation for high heat retention heaters with automatic charge and output controls. As installations should be in accordance with the national wiring standards, only a qualified electrician should carry out the installation. It is best to obtain advice from a qualified electrical heating engineer. Ask a qualified electrical heating engineer to explain the options, which might also include switching to other forms of electric heating.

2. 2
   Increase loft insulation to 270 mmIndicative cost: £100 - £350

   Loft insulation laid in the loft space or between roof rafters to a depth of at least 270 mm will significantly reduce heat loss through the roof; this will improve levels of comfort, reduce energy use and lower fuel bills. Insulation should not be placed below any cold water storage tank; any such tank should also be insulated on its sides and top, and there should be boarding on battens over the insulation to provide safe access between the loft hatch and the cold water tank. The insulation can be installed by professional contractors but also by a capable DIY enthusiast. Loose granules may be used instead of insulation quilt; this form of loft insulation can be blown into place and can be useful where access is difficult. The loft space must have adequate ventilation to prevent dampness; seek advice about this if unsure (particularly if installing insulation between rafters because a vapour control layer and ventilation above the insulation are required). Further information about loft insulation and details of local contractors can be obtained from the National Insulation Association (www.nationalinsulationassociation.org.uk).

3. 3
   Increase hot water cylinder insulationIndicative cost: £15 - £30

   Increasing the thickness of existing insulation around the hot water cylinder will help to maintain the water at the required temperature; this will reduce the amount of energy used and lower fuel bills. An additional cylinder jacket or other suitable insulation layer can be used. The insulation should be fitted over any thermostat clamped to the cylinder. Hot water pipes from the hot water cylinder should also be insulated, using pre-formed pipe insulation of up to 50 mm thickness (or to suit the space available) for as far as they can be accessed to reduce losses in summer. All these materials can be purchased from DIY stores and installed by a competent DIY enthusiast.

4. 4
   Replacement glazing unitsIndicative cost: £1,000 - £1,400

   Replacing existing double-glazed units with new high-performance units will improve comfort in the home and reduce energy use.

Source: the property’s domestic EPC recommendations (open data). Indicative only, get a professional survey before committing to any measure.

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