Failure to properly measure lifetime energy costs

You should ask the following questions when getting a quote:

• Can you include the purchase price as well as the lifetime running costs for this piece of equipment in my quote?

This will give you the real cost of the equipment. You can use this information when comparing the options available to you.

• Can you give me a written statement regarding how long you expect this equipment to last?

For example, you may get a better financial return from installing lighting that is more expensive to purchase, but achieves a better reduction in energy use over a longer period. Long-life equipment can also reduce replacement costs.

Sometimes, a contractor or tradesperson may offer to install a certain type or brand of equipment because they get a better mark-up from the distributor or manufacturer.

If they only offer you one option, ask them if they can give you costings for different brands of equipment that do the same thing.

For example, if you’re getting a lighting quote, get them to quote with different brands of lighting. Where possible always ensure that some of them are well-known brands.