It’s one of those increasingly relevant expressions at the heart of discussions about sustainability strategies. And it’s a topic that affects everyday life, as it directly impacts the value of our homes. So let’s explore what energy efficiency really means—particularly when it comes to our homes.
What is energy efficiency?
In engineering terms, efficiency refers to a system’s ability to achieve a given result while using less energy, or to reach it by improving overall performance.
In simpler terms, it refers to optimising energy consumption by reducing both costs and waste: maximum output with minimum effort.
When applied to residential settings and their energy requirements, energy efficiency is achieved by reducing energy consumption related to heating and electricity, without compromising comfort or essential services.
It is measured as a percentage.
- 0% corresponds to total waste, where energy is consumed without yielding any result;
- 100% represents optimal efficiency, where all energy input is converted into output.
What is energy retrofitting?
The concept of energy retrofitting is often linked to energy efficiency. While the two are closely related, there is a difference between them.
- Energy efficiency, as mentioned, refers to the inherent quality of a system or device—its ability to achieve a given result with minimal energy use.
- Energy retrofitting refers to the set of interventions aimed at improving a building’s energy efficiency.
The ultimate goal is the same: eliminating waste.
Over the years, various policies and regulations have been introduced at both European and national levels to promote energy efficiency.
Legislative initiatives have followed one another over recent decades to support energy-saving policies, to accelerate the reduction of CO₂ emissions, and to implement measures to tackle climate change.
Concrete examples of energy retrofitting interventions include:
- insulation works, such as the installation of external thermal cladding;
- replacement of windows and frames;
- installing low-energy light bulbs (LED) instead of incandescent ones;
- installing solar panels and photovoltaic systems to harness solar energy;
- installing heat pumps;
- installing systems for the production or use of renewable energy sources.
How to increase the efficiency of the heating system?
Heating expenses can significantly impact both household budgets and the environment. Finding the right approach to increase the energy efficiency of a heating system allows for cost reduction and maximised thermal benefits.
Even simple measures can make the difference, such as installing thermostatic valves on radiators. These valves enable the regulation of heat distribution in individual rooms, depending on their usage throughout the day. Conversely, running a radiator at full capacity when the room is empty only generates unnecessary heat loss.
Regarding radiators, technological advancements in the sector make it possible to install electric-only models, connected to the household electrical grid: they do not require resources such as gas for operation. In a home equipped with a photovoltaic system, they represent an even more sustainable and efficient approach. Models with Wi-Fi connectivity further facilitate remote control and energy efficiency.
With thermostatic valves, management becomes more precise. With a smart version, it not only becomes more accurate but also simpler. Smart thermostatic valves belong to the new generation of devices that contribute to the energy efficiency of the home and can be interacted with through the internet and voice assistants like Alexa or Google Home.
- They are designed to be constantly connected to the user through wireless communication and app notifications.
- They represent home automation tools for precise and remote monitoring at any time.
- They are equipped with sensors that detect window openings: thus, they interrupt heat distribution for a set period, preventing its dispersion.
The combination of thermostatic valves and smart thermostats further enhances the heating system's energy performance. The thermostat enables the programming of system activation and deactivation and measures the ambient temperature to initiate or cease the heat generator's operation.
- With technological solutions that make it smart, the thermostat also provides useful real-time information to the user.
- It signals any anomalies and detects humidity levels and air quality with extreme precision.
- Programming is immediate and easily customizable according to residents' habits.
Energy efficiency at home also involves adopting heat generators such as heat pumps, which fully exploit renewable sources like air for heating and domestic hot water production.
They are the most immediate evolution of condensing boilers, which already contribute to reducing energy consumption by recovering additional energy from exhaust gases.
Home automation, innovative systems, and maintenance: despite appearing obvious, this is a key step for the proper functioning of the heating system. From the boiler to the radiator, it ensures high efficiency in performance and energy consumption.
How to measure home energy efficiency?
Energy efficiency contributes to increasing the value of a property. A home that consumes little energy without reducing the performance of the services required brings economic and environmental benefits.
To measure the energy efficiency of a home, it is necessary to gather data for a final evaluation.
- The quality of thermal insulation in walls, roof, flooring, and windows must be assessed. Good insulation reduces heat and cooling losses.
- Heating and cooling systems such as boilers, heat pumps, and air conditioners are examined.
- The energy efficiency of household appliances and lighting systems used in the home must be considered. Low energy consumption reduces overall energy consumption.
- Electrical systems should be inspected to consider replacing old and unreliable equipment.
- If the building has renewable energy systems, it is necessary to determine to what extent they contribute to reducing dependence on non-renewable energy sources.
