One of the greatest benefits of living in a modern, energy-efficient home is its inherently low carbon footprint. Having low-carbon technologies such as high-performance insulation, airtight construction and smart tech are all features that make these homes efficient. However, heat pumps and advanced insulation are two features that still require proactive winter care.
Here is a guide to help you understand how to look after your new build home year round, the eco way.
Maintain Your Heat Pump for Peak Efficiency
Heat pumps work incredibly efficiently, especially in well-insulated new properties, but like any major appliance, they need care. Pre-winter checks can make a big difference to both efficiency and longevity. Start by clearing any leaves or debris surrounding the outdoor unit, anything that restricts airflow can force the system to work harder, reducing its overall performance. That is why it is important to check the filters on your indoor unit and ensure that any dirty filters are cleaned and replaced as recommended by its manufacturer, as it can overall help maintain a smooth operation.
You should also book an annual professional service. Before ensuring that the system is up and running as efficiently as possible, a qualified engineer will inspect and test electrical components beforehand. This step is crucial for those living in new build homes with heat pumps as the main primary-heating system source, as it is essential at preserving the eco-friendly benefits you invested in.
Draught-Proof Strategically While Preserving Ventilation
Having a well-sealed new build home can help retain heat, but over-sealing can compromise indoor air quality, which is seen particularly in new builds that rely on mechanical ventilation to help manage moisture and pollutants.
Draught-proofing is all about balance. Consider sealing any clear gaps around window frames, letterboxes, loft hatches, and external doors to prevent any cold air from creeping in and avoid blocking trickle vents or covering ventilation grilles, as they’re essential for controlled airflow and can prevent condensation or stale air from building up during winter.
Insulate and Protect Key Infrastructure
Insulating pipework is a small job that delivers real benefits in winter. Exposed heating pipes (especially those in lofts or garages) lose heat rapidly. Lagging them helps the system retain warmth and lowers the risk of pipes freezing during cold snaps.
It’s also worth checking gutters and external drains while preparing your home for lower temperatures: blockages can cause overflows and damp, undermining the structural efficiency of your property. Regular clearing prevents ice buildup and protects your home’s broader winter performance.
Use Smart Controls and Eco Settings
Smart heating controls can dramatically improve winter efficiency by ensuring that you can only use energy where and when it is needed. You can even set schedules that can match your routine and experiment with eco modes that can maintain comfortable room temperatures without having to overwork the system. During the colder seasons, you can function short “heating boosts” that can quickly warm rooms up, whilst remote control via smartphone apps can allow you to respond to any sudden weather changes whilst on the go.
Monitoring energy usage through your smart thermostat can also highlight unusual patterns. It can prompt early checks before minor issues become problematic inefficiencies.