Green home improvers 'should start small'

A Vermont-based architect has listed a number of emerging green trends for homeowners to help reduce their carbon footprint.

John Connell told the Associated Press that there are a number of basic home repairs and improvements that should be carried out before a larger-scale low-carbon initiative is undertaken.

"None of the more sexy energy-saving installations - small windmills on the roof, photovoltaic panels, solar-water collectors - make any sense until you've done your insulation, weatherstripping and other fundamentals," he pointed out.

Mr Connell explained that other simpler improvements can be undertaken - including changing regular light bulbs to more energy-efficient ones, maintaining appliances such as tumble dryers and ensuring that no heat is escaping through poorly-sealed windows and doors.

He also claimed that the top trends for low-carbon home improvements include tankless water heaters, insulation panels and geothermal heating.

Meanwhile, the Energy Saving Trust has suggested that homeowners could save up to £250 each year on their fuel bills by implementing the carbon-friendly measures suggested in an individual home energy check.