Home energy
Autumn draught proofing: keep the warmth, keep the ventilation
Before sealing gaps in your Northampton home, understand the difference between unwanted draughts and the airflow your building needs.
Find the unwanted draughts first
Draughts through unintended gaps around external doors and windows can make a room uncomfortable. Suitable draught proofing reduces unwanted airflow and heat loss. Start by identifying the particular gap instead of sealing every opening you can see.
Check the condition of existing seals and whether the door or window closes properly. If you are unsure about the construction or the right material, get advice from a competent installer before carrying out work.
Keep purposeful ventilation working
Extractor fans, trickle vents, wall vents and air bricks serve a different purpose from accidental gaps. Do not block them. Fixed ventilation associated with combustion appliances must also stay clear.
Energy Saving Trust explains that ventilation removes stale air and helps control moisture and pollutants. Kitchens and bathrooms are particularly important places to maintain it.
- Keep existing ventilation openings clear.
- Use extractors when cooking and bathing.
- Follow appliance instructions and professional advice about ventilation.
Think about the whole home
Making a home more airtight changes how fresh air enters and moisture leaves. Insulation and draught proofing should be considered alongside ventilation, rather than as isolated jobs. Ask an installer how their work will affect the home’s airflow.
If you already have a mechanical ventilation system, follow its instructions. The right approach depends on the building and the equipment in it, so a single checklist cannot replace advice for your home.
Use your EPC to plan the next conversation
If you are planning several improvements, keep your EPC and installation documents together. They provide useful background for a discussion with an assessor or installer. Ask which work is suitable for the property before making a spending decision.
For a Northampton EPC appointment, use the booking link on this page or speak directly to Paul. Small preparation steps now can make your next property task easier to organise.
Sources & further reading
Guidance checked on .
General guidance for homes in England. For an unusual property or a specific compliance question, check the current official guidance and seek advice for your circumstances.
