Renovating your home is a great opportunity to reduce energy consumption, improve comfort, and minimize your environmental impact. To succeed, it’s important to take a comprehensive and step-by-step approach.
1. Conduct an energy audit
This is the starting point to identify the weak spots in your home and plan the most effective renovations based on impact and cost.
2. Prioritize insulation
Proper insulation reduces heating needs and increases comfort year-round. For summer comfort, it’s essential to use insulating materials with high thermal inertia (like wood wool) to slow down heat transfer. Be cautious with lightweight insulation like polystyrene, as they are less effective against summer heat.
Areas to prioritise :
- Roof (a major source of heat loss)
- Walls (external insulation is preferable if possible)
- Windows and doors (install double or triple glazing)
- Lower floors (often overlooked but important)
Favour eco-friendly insulation materials (wood wool, hemp, cellulose wadding, etc.) to combine efficiency with environmental respect.
3. Ensure effective ventilation
A well-insulated home must also be well-ventilated to prevent mold and indoor air pollution. A single or double flow mechanical ventilation system (MVHR) maintains good air quality without major heat loss.
4. Install a heat pump (HP)
Heat pumps are efficient and cost-effective heating systems.
Types :
- Air-to-air HP: provides both heating and cooling
- Air-to-water HP: connects to underfloor heating or radiators
5. Integrate renewable energy
- Photovoltaic panels to generate electricity
- Solar thermal collectors to heat water
These solutions help reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
6. Choose sustainable materials
- Lime or clay-based plasters
- VOC-free paints
- Natural floorings (cork, linoleum, eco-certified wood)
These choices improve indoor air quality and lower environmental impact.
7. Proceed step by step
Energy renovation can be done progressively, if there’s a coherent, overall plan from the beginning.
Improving your home’s energy efficiency means combining comfort, savings, and ecological responsibility. Every step you take contributes to making your home healthier, more economical, and more sustainable.