Ways to go off grid in a normal semi

[Issummeroveralready]

I have a normal semi. All run on electricity. However with the predicted prices, I want to find ways to go off grid. Is this even possible in a suburban semi? All tips welcomed.

Hi @Issummeroveralready Can I ask what heating system you're using and does it work well? We're wanting to step away from using a gas boiler but there seem to be difficulties with many of the alternatives.

We're about to begin renovations on our 1930s semi. Our main steps to improve efficiency are replacing the windows and adding loads of insulation. The new windows will have a high UV rating, too. We're also adding solar panels, which we're hoping will greatly reduce our energy bills.

Great idea for solar panels. I actually have night storage heaters, the modern ones. We have economy 7. Still seems a bit pricey though!

That's interesting. My only experience with storage heaters is really old, crappy ones! Good to know they've improved!

We're considering having an air source heat pump fitted but hear really mixed reviews about how effective they are.

I've found a company who do energy efficiency consultations and advise on what changes you can make, what heating/hot water system would be best, how many solar panels. They're independent but can refer you to an approved installer so I think we're going to book an appointment with them and see if they can share some good advice.

Barbara Good, is this you? If so I would recommend getting a goat and calling it Geraldine and some pigs named Pinky and Perky. And don't forget Lenin the cockerel!

I was looking at this yesterday. All ideas welcomed. We don;t have a garden - more like a small patio so solar panels seem the best option. Please someone tell us can we do this and how - don't want them certified for contributing to grid. Just our own use.

@wantmorenow As far as I know it's as simple as booking a fitter to give you a quote and they should advise as to best placement on your house. They normally fall under permitted development so that shouldn't be a problem, unless the building is listed or in a conservation area.

They're not cheap. But then nor is electric and gas!

Thanks - we need and want to go ultra cheap so would be fitting ourselves.

Also we have an asbestos roof so nobody would touch it lol. We would need to know what to buy and do it ourselves from scratch

Barbara Good, is this you? If so I would recommend getting a goat and calling it Geraldine and some pigs named Pinky and Perky. And don't forget Lenin the cockerel!

😘