Where does my home lose heat? Trialling the Kestrix platform

Ever wondered why your home still feels cold even with the heating on? Kestrix has developed a platform that helps people figure out where their home is losing heat and what they can do to fix it. We ran a trial to help Kestrix understand what they need to improve their platform so it’s easier to use and more useful for people all over the UK. 

The problem with heat loss 

Fixing the spots where your home loses heat helps it stay warmer for longer. That means you won't need the heating on as much, which saves you money, keeps you more comfortable, and is better for the planet too. 

How does Kestrix help? 

Imagine a heat map of your home showing exactly where warmth is leaking out - from your windows, your roof, even your front door. Kestrix does this by using drones with heat cameras to fly around your home. It shows you where heat is escaping and why, so you can fix those problem areas. Kestrix also gives you ideas on how to fix your heat loss and shows you how making those changes can save you money on your energy bills.

Screenshot of the Kestrix platform.

What did we do? 

Last year, 19 Labbers signed up to have their homes scanned by Kestrix. They then got to see the results of the scans on the Kestrix platform, and we spoke with them to hear what they thought.  

We also sent out a survey to the 19 Labbers who had used Kestrix, along with some who hadn’t, to see if using Kestrix helps people feel more confident about spotting areas of heat loss.

What Labbers said 

Labbers felt that the Kestrix scans are eye-opening. 

• The thermal scans let them see where their homes are losing heat from 
• Labbers who used Kestrix felt more confident in spotting heat loss areas than those who didn’t use the platform 
• Without Kestrix, many said it would be really tough to get the same kind of insight, especially when it comes to things like heat escaping through the roof 

They also thought it would be helpful to know if the heat loss was typical or something to worry about. 

• All homes lose heat from areas such as the windows and they wanted Kestrix to tell them if the heat loss was typical or unusual 

Kestrix recommended what major work was needed, such as replacing windows.  

Labbers fed back that they would also like more quick, DIY friendly solutions to reduce heat loss.

Heatmap highlighting areas of heat loss.

Why this matters – and what’s next?  

Thanks to everyone who took part in this trial. By being part of the Living Lab, you’re helping to improve the products of the future that will help us to get to Net Zero. Kestrix will use your feedback to help update their platform and encourage households across the UK to improve their homes.  

We'll be running more trials in the Living Lab to test more innovative products and services. Keep an eye out for more opportunities to take part. If you haven’t already, completing your profile information and linking a smart meter (if you have one) will mean you’re eligible for more trials.