Free thermal imaging surveys in January 2026
Would you like to reduce your energy bills and reduce your carbon footprint? A thermal imaging camera detects and visualises heat energy allowing the clear identification of colder areas around a house. It can be used to identify problems with insulation, and detect draughts and leaky windows, for example.
We will be offering this service again in January 2026. If you’d like to express an interest in booking a free survey, contact energy@sustainablecottenham.org.uk
Some problems identified may be easily remedied, but others, for example poor insulation, can have a significant cost, and grants may be available from Action on Energy Cambridgeshire (www.actiononenergycambs.org/funding) for certain types of improvement. If you would like to learn more, please come along to the Sustainable Cottenham stand in Cottenham Community Centre coffee shop (opposite the Co-op) on 22 November 2025, 10.00 – 14.00.
| A thermal image showing very cold spots along the edge of a skylight window | A thermal image showing an uninsulated loft hatch |
Thermal imaging surveys January 2025
A team of 4 from Sustainable Cottenham carried out Thermal Image surveys in Cottenham in January 2025 to help householders to identify colder areas around their houses. With a Thermal Imaging camera borrowed from Cambridge Carbon Footprint, we carried out 23 surveys, including a number of community buildings. While most properties were reasonably efficient, we did find some problems with draughts, insulation, leaky windows, and walls leaking heat from radiators. Each survey resulted in a short report which included thermal images showing specific issues identified.
Sustainable Cottenham is very grateful to Cambridge Carbon Footprint for lending us the camera over an extended period.
Home Energy Saving Drop-In on Tuesday 19 September 2023 5.30pm to 9pm
Many people want to improve the heating and insulation of their homes but can’t easily find out what would work best for them. We collaborated again with Cottenham Community Centre to hold a Energy Saving Drop-In event on 19th September 2023 at the Community Centre (opposite the Co-op). It was a brilliant opportunity to ask experts’ advice and hear some interesting short talks while relaxing with a drink and refreshments. And all right here in Cottenham. Added to that, everyone attending qualified for free entry into a draw for Sunday lunch or pizzas at our popular local pub, The Chequers.
A useful booklet has been published by Cambridgeshire County Council giving information on how householders can improve their energy efficiency (and hence reduce carbon emissions). In addition to information about domestic energy efficiency and renewable energy upgrades, it provides details of available sources of funding to help you reduce your carbon footprint.
Energy efficiency booklet (cambridgeshire.gov.uk)
Saving energy is good for the purse and good for the planet. In November 2022 we collaborated with Cottenham Community Centre to put on a free Home Energy Drop-In event to help local residents and businesses with information to help them in the current energy crisis.
There was a wealth of information from one-to-one, tailored practical advice from those in the know to informative talks including one on Energy Saving at Home by Nicola Terry, an environmental consultant with Transition Cambridge.
There was also in-depth information and advice on solar panels and battery storage; electric vehicle charging; air-source heat pumps; insulation; glazing and draught-proofing. Interactive child-friendly model eco-house and everyday tips on saving energy at home.