Improving the efficiency of building services e.g. changing lighting to LED, upgrading boilers, refurbishing or replacing radiators, can be a highly effective method of improving the energy performance of buildings whilst having minimal or no impact on the building’s fabric or significance. It has been estimated that replacing an outdated or ineffective boiler can make a 30 to 40% improvement in energy usage. Heating controls and smart meters can be valuable in understanding and controlling a building’s energy usage. However, when upgrading appliances, there should be considerations of the life-time cost and if it is beneficial to upgrade before the existing appliances reaches the end of its life.

Further information on building services

Building Services

Historic England’s How to Improve Energy Efficiency

Historic England’s guidance for considerations when installing new services

Energy Saving Trust guide for Insulating tanks, pipes and radiators

Energy Saving Trust guide for buying energy efficient products, including lighting and home appliances

Heating Controls

Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy Smart meters: a guide for households

Simple Energy Advice, Smart meters

Energy Saving Trust guide on heating controls and how to control heating systems